The Kelso School Board on Monday night moved closer to implementing a state-mandated policy for student athletes.

The Zackery Lystedt Law, passed by the state Legislature this spring, requires all athletes under the age of 18 who are suspected of having a concussion to get written consent from a licensed medical provider trained in evaluating concussions before returning to play.

The law is designed to prevent students from playing while injured, said Kelso Schools Superintendent Glenys Hill.

Signs of a concussion can be easily missed, said Kelso School Board President Patty Wood.

A Spokane Valley high school football player died Sunday after suffering a blow to the head during a game Friday night. "And he walked off the field," Wood said.

Kelso plans to require parents to sign a waiver that outlines the policy and warns of the dangers of head injuries. It also plans to mandate all coaches undergo training in head injury and concussion management once every two years, in accordance with the state law.

The board plans to adopt the policy during its Oct. 12 meeting.