They've been training for it, but students at elementary schools in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., won't get a chance to show off their high jumping abilities at track and field meets this week and next.
The Algoma District School Board and Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board say they've decided to no longer offer high jump at the elementary level of competition due to the risk factor.
The school boards note that high jump has been classified as a "higher risk activity" through the Ontario Physical Education Safety Guidelines, due to the potential risk of injury to students.
In a joint release on Wednesday, the school boards say they are committed to supporting athletic opportunities and physical activity while maintaining student safety as a priority.
They say high jump will continue to be an event at the secondary level.
"It was felt that the changed classification and the need to maintain student safety as a priority means this event is best suited for development at the secondary level where there is greater access to trained staff and proper equipment at sites," the statement said.