LANIER HIGH SCHOOL
Cheerleading Handbook
​Longhorn Cheerleading
2025-2026


Purpose and Mission
The purpose of Lanier cheerleading is to:
  • promote and uphold team spirit for those we encounter,
  • develop good sportsmanship by example,
  • promote good relations in the community, 
  • support high school athletics 
 Our mission is to:
* build character
* develop habits and desires for self-discipline 
*  increase self-esteem 
*  establish and develop integrity
*  allow athletes a place to enjoy the feeling of accomplishment  
We are dedicated to helping students grow both physically and emotionally, preparing them to become responsible and ethical members of society. We believe the lessons learned through cheerleading will help them succeed in life.
Cheerleaders must understand the impact their behavior has on others, as they serve as role models both in and out of school. Our guidelines are designed to ensure a fun, safe, and supportive environment where hard work, character development, and excellence are valued.
​
Coaches 
Linsey Mathews- [email protected]  
Jessica Willingham- [email protected]  
Jenna Cwikla- [email protected]   
Kallie Black- [email protected]g  
Emma Ross- [email protected]











Expectations 
Section 1: Athlete Expectations
  • Foster and maintain positive relationships with faculty, administration, the student body, and collaborate effectively with all school organizations.
  • Demonstrate the highest level of respect at all times. Disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action.
  • Follow all rules and regulations outlined in the Lanier High School Handbook.
  • Attend and participate in all games, competitions, and events, even during holidays or school breaks.
  • Actively participate in all fundraising activities.
  • Attend and be fully engaged in camps, practices, and conditioning sessions.
  • Maintain high academic and moral standards both in and outside of school.
  • Attend all practices and team-related activities.
  • Represent Lanier High School with spirit, pride, and enthusiasm at all functions.
  • Maintain a positive attitude at all times.
  • Athletes must notify their coach directly in advance if there are any scheduling conflicts.
  • Refrain from publicly criticizing Lanier High School, the Lanier Cheer Program, teammates, or coaches, whether verbally or electronically.
  • Cheerleaders must demonstrate good sportsmanship, avoiding criticism of other schools, teams, or opponents.
  • Athletes who do not complete their committed season with the Lanier Cheerleading Program will not be eligible to try out for the program in subsequent seasons.
Section 2: Parent Expectations
  • Review expectations with your athlete to ensure they understand the consequences for unacceptable behavior.
  • Provide transportation to and from team events as needed.
  • Support your athlete and the team by attending competitions and events.
  • Get involved by supporting the LHS Cheer Booster Club and volunteering where possible to help the program run smoothly.
  • Participate in fundraising efforts to support the program.
  • Respect the coach's decisions, even when they may not directly benefit your athlete.
  • Offer positive support to your child through both successes and challenges.
  • Refrain from making negative comments about the opposition, officials, or coaches.
  • Allow the coaching staff to carry out their responsibilities without interference.
  • Coaches will not discuss issues immediately following games, competitions, or practices.
  • Understand that the coaching staff will communicate each athlete's role within the team.
  • In case of concerns regarding competition or positions, the athlete should first address them with the coach in person. Please refer to the “Concerns/Problems” section of the handbook for further procedures if necessary.
It is essential that both parents and athletes follow the guidelines set forth in the LHS Cheerleading Handbook, the LHS Student Handbook, and GHSA guidelines. Failure to comply may result in consequences.
Section 3: Commitment
Being a part of the LHS Cheerleading Program requires a strong commitment from both athletes and their families. While we encourage athletes to be well-rounded and participate in other extracurricular activities, it is essential that they prioritize Lanier Cheerleading and manage their time effectively.
Athletes are expected to attend all practices, games, and competitions. Absences due to work or other non-school events (such as all-star events) will not be excused. It is the athlete's responsibility to keep track of important dates on the team calendar.
Excused and unexcused absences will be addressed by the coach. All athletes must attend the first day of practice, the tryout period, and the entire season. If a non-school related activity conflicts with participation in the school team, the coach has the authority to remove the athlete for failing to honor their commitment to the program.
Coaches may also remove athletes who do not align with the team’s philosophy or expectations.
Football & Basketball Commitment:
To letter in cheerleading, athletes must attend at least 90% of the games. Please refer to the Lettering Policy for more details.
Section 4: Behavior 
A. School Behavior- Each athlete is expected to be a leader by maintaining good behavior in all classes and activities. If an athlete is disciplined by a teacher or administrator for any reason, the coach will reference the discipline policy and apply appropriate consequences.  Cheerleaders must follow ALL school rules, including the dress code. It is expected that athletes should report any issues to the coaching staff before a teacher notification. 
B. General Behavior- The following behaviors are NOT allowed by LHS Cheerleading standards.  Violations will be evaluated by the coaches and appropriate consequences will be given.  (Consequences may be, but not limited to benching, suspensions, and removal from the team.): 
• Profane language 
• Undesirable or immoral behavior 
• Instigating conflict 
• Bullying 
• Posturing to Fight and/or Fighting 
• Recording and/or encouraging fights
• Overt display of affection 
• Plagiarism 
• Forgery
• Skipping/AWOL from class, leaving, being out of class without permission 
• Stealing 
• CHEMICAL USE- A zero tolerance policy for chemical use will be strictly enforced. Such usage violates legal and ethical standards and imposes unreasonable long term health risks on the user. Disciplinary action will be taken against any athlete that participates in the use of, distribution of, or association with other persons in use or possession of any illegal drugs including alcohol. Discipline will range from suspension to permanent dismissal from the LHS Athletic Program and all sports associated with Gwinnett County Schools. 
C. Squad Behavior/Appearance- Cheerleader Expectations
  • Always maintain a positive attitude.
  • Jewelry, including body piercings, is not allowed while cheering.
  • Fingernails should be kept short, without color or fake nails, and should not extend beyond the tips of the fingers. Nails visible with palms facing must be trimmed immediately.
  • Hair should be pulled up in a high ponytail and kept out of the face with the appropriate bow.
  • Avoid making excuses.
  • Chewing gum is not allowed during practice or when in uniform.
  • Be willing to prioritize time, responsibilities, and personal feelings for the good of the team.
  • Lanier Cheerleading must be your top priority. Avoid taking on commitments that could interfere.
  • Public displays of affection are not allowed in or out of uniform or school attire.
  • If an athlete is acting inappropriately, performing below expectations, or not prepared with material, they may be removed from the lineup until they meet team standards. This is not considered an excused absence.
  • Cheerleaders are responsible for bringing their FULL uniform to all cheerleading activities.
  • Full uniform includes: no-show sports bra, uniform, bloomers, warm-up, no-show socks, cheer shoes, and bow.
  • Cheerleaders must have appropriate practice attire (shirt, shorts, cheer shoes, hair tie) for every practice.
  • Uniforms and shoes should be kept in good condition at all times.
  • Excessive makeup is not allowed. Cheerleaders should not apply lotion, makeup, or deodorant in public. Tattoos should be covered, and hair should not be dyed in unnatural or distracting colors.
  • Sweats, pajamas, crocs/uggs, and slippers should not be worn with uniforms or warm-ups.
  • Cheerleaders should demonstrate mature and appropriate behavior at all public functions.
You may have extra conditioning, be benched, suspended, or removed from the squad for failure to follow any of the above expected behaviors. 
Requirements 
Section 1: Participation 
Participation in LHS Cheerleading is considered a privilege, not a right. As such, LHS Cheer has the authority to establish higher standards for its participants than those set for students not involved in extracurricular activities. The program’s primary objectives include fostering the development of key personal qualities such as character, self-discipline, responsibility, pride, loyalty, leadership, teamwork, respect, and promoting healthy living habits.
Section 2: Academics 
LHS Cheerleaders are required to uphold academic eligibility in accordance with GHSA, GCPS, and LHS policies. The priority for all students is academics--student first, athlete second. Attending LHS as a student is the primary purpose, and cheerleading is a voluntary extracurricular activity. Athletics will never be an acceptable excuse for a decline in grades. Coaches will monitor grades on a weekly basis, and failure to maintain passing grades in one or more subjects during or at the conclusion of the semester may result in the following consequences: the student will be required to attend study hall with the academic teacher until grades are brought up to passing and will be benched until eligibility is restored. While benched for academic reasons, the cheerleader must remain in full uniform, seated with the coach, refrain from using a phone, and may be expected to complete any missing assignments during this time.
To participate in, practice for, or try out for interscholastic activities, students must meet academic eligibility requirements. Although coaches and the athletic department will monitor academic standing, it is the responsibility of both the student and their parents to ensure awareness of the student’s academic progress.
A student is required to pass classes that carry at least 2.5 Units counting toward graduation the semester immediately preceding participation. 
(a) First-year students (entering 9th grade) are eligible academically. Second semester first-year students must have passed courses carrying at least 2.5 units the previous semester in order to participate. 
(b) Second-year students must have accumulated five (5) total units in the first year, AND passed courses carrying at least 2.5 units in the previous semester. 
(c) Third-year students must have accumulated eleven (11) units in the first and second years, AND passed courses carrying at least 2.5 units in the previous semester. 
(d) Fourth-year students must have accumulated seventeen (17) units in the first three years, AND passed courses carrying at least 2.5 units in the previous semester. 
(e) Students may accumulate the required units for participation during the school year and eligibility will be reinstated at the beginning of the next semester.  
Section 3: Safety (Per GHSA)
  1. Jewelry cannot be worn during cheerleading activities. You may NOT put a band-aid over new piercings.
  2. Hair must be secured away from the face and off of the shoulders in a medium to high ponytail (No low ponytails).  No hard clips, hair decor etc… should be used.  
  3. Fingernails must be short (cannot be over the edge of finger; nail salons will not cut them short enough). 
  4. No stunting or tumbling unless under the direct supervision of the coach.  
  5. Appropriate clothing and shoes must be worn at all times. 
  6. No chewing gum, etc… while engaging in cheer activities.
  7. Never perform stunts and/or tumbling during public appearances that have not been practiced to perfection.  
  8. There are inherent risks, mostly due to stunting and tumbling, for cheerleaders.  All safety guidelines must be followed to ensure the utmost safety of all participants.  Therefore, a coach should approve any new stunt and/or tumbling skill before it is attempted.  
  9. Cheerleaders must be attentive and focused while engaged in cheerleading activities.  This is especially important during basketball games due to the proximity of the cheerleaders to the game. 
  10. Cheerleaders must report any physical problems to their coach as soon as the problem arises.  Failure to do so could cause further problems and jeopardize the safety of others.
  11. Cheerleaders MUST obtain a doctor’s release before resuming any cheerleading activity after an injury or illness requiring a doctor’s visit.  
Attendance 
Section 1: General Expectations 
  • Cheerleaders are expected to attend practice in appropriate practice attire unless they are absent from school (see below). In high school, cheerleaders are responsible for communicating directly with their coaches regarding logistics, rather than having their parents relay messages, unless extraordinary circumstances prevent the cheerleader from doing so.
  • If a cheerleader needs to miss any part of a cheerleading function, she must inform the coach in person. Emails or third-party communication are not acceptable unless the cheerleader is absent from school due to illness or similar reasons. The coach must approve any absence; unapproved absences will result in a one-game suspension.
  • No non-school activity should interfere with cheerleading practice. If there is a conflict with another school-related activity, an agreement must be made between the teacher/coach to accommodate both obligations.
  • Competition cheerleaders are expected to attend every competition, including as an alternate, unless otherwise directed. Additionally, all squad members are required to participate in other essential activities, including but not limited to: fundraisers, team-building events, camps, pep rallies, community service, and any other school functions that demonstrate unified school spirit.
  • To be considered present, cheerleaders must attend at least 3.5 periods of school or leave after 12:00 pm.
Section 2: Absences 
The coach will determine whether an absence is excused. If a cheerleader needs to miss practice and is not absent from school, she must inform the coach prior to the absence and is responsible for obtaining all information discussed during practice. If the cheerleader is absent from school, she should notify the coach as soon as possible.
Absence Policy:
  1. A cheerleader must provide a doctor’s note for any missed function after the third absence.
  2. Generally, if a cheerleader is well enough to be at school, she is expected to attend practice as well.
    • Missing a function due to a routine check-up does not count as an excused absence. Parents should schedule regular check-ups around cheerleading activities to avoid conflicts.
Failure to provide appropriate documentation for an absence will result in a one-game suspension.
Consequences:

Unexcused absence: from cheer functions (practice,game,competition)
1st offense – Benched for one complete game
2nd offense – 2 full game suspension and/or extra community service
3rd offense – Dismissal from squad
*Each situation will be evaluated. This may escalate the consequence of action  to immediate dismissal*
Excused absence:  from practice- run 1 mile and/or extra community service
Late for Practice:  Extra running; 1 lap for every minute late, after practice.

 Section 3: Tardiness 
“If you are early, you are on time. If you are on time, you are late. If you are late you are in trouble!” 
  1. Athletes who are late to practice, games, competitions, events, or to the bus will face appropriate disciplinary consequences, as tardiness is considered disrespectful to all parties involved.
  2. Students are considered late if they are not properly attired when the scheduled time for practice, game, competition, or event begins. If a student misses the bus, they will be left behind and will face disciplinary consequences. Additionally, students may not drive themselves if they miss the bus.
  3. Being "on time" means being in the designated area at the assigned time, fully prepared for the activity. This includes being dressed in the required attire, with the appropriate shoes and socks, hair pulled back, and no jewelry worn.
General Information 
Section 1: Eligibility and Squad Breakdown 
An athlete may participate only if all the following requirements have been met: 
1. Current physical, Code of Conduct, Concussion Form, Proof of insurance and all other forms on  Rank One are completed to the coach or on file in the Athletic Office. 
2. All equipment from a previous season of participation is turned in or has been paid for. 
3. Students must be eligible in accordance with the Constitution and By-Laws of the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). See www.ghsa.net > Constitution and By-Laws 
Freshman and Junior Varsity teams are an advanced developmental program available for students in grades 9-11. The focus is on learning new skills, improving ability, and practicing at a more advanced level so the athlete can transition to the varsity level. This does not guarantee future placement on varsity teams. 
Varsity teams are advanced programs for grades 9-12. Skill and ability are at a high level. These athletes are the leaders of each program in and out of the athletic arena. 
Section 2: Lettering Policy 
  1. Athletes who participate in Varsity Cheerleading can earn a letter. To earn a letter, a cheerleader must complete the following: 
  1. One letter:
90% of all football, PLUS a minimum of 7 hours of cheerleading community service, & 
at least one run through banner completed during the season. 
  OR
90% of all basketball games, PLUS a minimum of 8 hours of cheerleading community
 service.                

  1. Two letters:  Cheers approximately 90% of all football and basketball games.  A minimum of 10 hours of cheerleading related community service & one run through banner completed during the season. 
              AND
        3.  Cheerleader must uphold guidelines outlined in the handbook and finish the
 season in good standing.
Cheerleaders must maintain athletic and academic eligibility for the duration of 
the season (including postseason). 

*All community service must be pre-approved by the head coach and must be organized through the cheerleading organization (not church, or Beta club, etc...).  
 
B. A cheerleader on the varsity competition squad will earn an additional letter.  All participants, including alternates will letter (alternates that have been with the varsity squad for the entire season).
  
C. A cheerleader on the game day squad will earn an additional letter. All participants, including alternates 
         will letter.
Cheerleaders who quit the squad or are dismissed at any time during the season forfeit their right to any cheerleading award (including lettering). 
Section 3: Alternates (Competition/Game Day ONLY) 
Alternates are required to attend all cheerleading activities including practices, community service activities, competitions, pep-rallies, etc. Alternates are required to make all payments. Alternates are required to be in full uniform or designated clothing at all activities. Alternates should be prepared to step in at any time to fill another cheerleader’s spot. 
Section 4: Bullying 
Lanier High School enforces a zero-tolerance policy for all types of bullying, including in and out of school, in person or online.  
Section 5: Internet Safety 
Members of the LHS Cheerleading Program are expected to maintain a positive and respectful online presence. This includes refraining from posting any questionable material—such as pictures or dialogue—that does not align with the standards of the LHS Cheer Program. Cheerleaders are also responsible for monitoring what their friends post about them on social media platforms.
Any cheerleader found with pictures in compromising situations, inappropriate clothing, or content that violates the program's standards will face consequences, including possible benching, probation, or removal from the team. Additionally, cheerleaders must ensure that they do not have pictures featuring alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or any form of sexual content in the background or foreground.
Coaches and LHS personnel have the right to monitor social media accounts and may request the removal of inappropriate posts. Failure to comply with this policy will result in disciplinary actions, including benching, probation, or removal from the team.
Section 6: Uniform 
You will be given a uniform to use for the duration of your season. This uniform is the property of Lanier Cheerleading. There is a non-refundable usage fee for the uniform. The cheerleader is responsible for any damage to the uniform. To clean the uniform, wash on a low, gentle cycle and lay flat to dry. Do not dry clean the uniform. The uniform should not be altered by the cheerleader. No one other than  
the cheerleader to whom the uniform was issued should wear the uniform. 

Section 7: Cheerleader Quitting

Once a cheerleader voluntarily resigns from or is removed from the squad, she will no longer be considered a member of the LHS Cheerleading Program, including any associated teams. As a result, she will forfeit eligibility for booster club gifts, any fees paid, and all banquet privileges. Additionally, failure to fulfill the obligations of the spirit squad or competitive squad may lead to dismissal from the program.

Consequences and Discipline Policy 
The discipline process begins as soon as a member joins the LHS Cheerleading Program. Cheerleaders are expected to uphold the standards set by the program, and any violations may result in consequences determined by the LHS Cheer Coaches and LHS Administration.
Consequences
Consequences for violations may include, but are not limited to:
  • Conditioning
  • Benching
  • Conference with parents and coach to discuss a discipline plan
  • Removal from the squad
Examples of Behavior Leading to Immediate Removal from the LHS Cheer Program
  • Alcohol use
  • Drug use
  • Smoking
  • Destruction or vandalism of school property
  • In-school suspension (ISS) / Out-of-school suspension (OSS) (depending on the offense)
  • Stealing
  • Sexual misconduct
  • Inappropriate social media usage, including but not limited to:
    • Pictures or videos posted on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, etc., which will be considered as physical proof of violations
In cases involving extenuating circumstances, the coaches reserve the right to determine appropriate consequences, which may include suspension or dismissal from the cheerleading program.

Financial
The Booster Club handles all financial obligations. All payments should be made to the booster club. 
Cheer members will be expected to participate in group fundraising activities in which all money earned will be contributed to the general cheer fund to help alleviate group costs (banquet, meals, gifts, etc.) 
All monies collected that have already been paid to vendors through the booster will not be refunded (i.e.  clothing, camps, and choreography). 
Fundraising
Each cheerleader will be expected to participate in fundraisers decided upon by the coaches, squads, and/or booster club. Fundraising is the responsibility of the cheerleader, not the parents.  Please remember that our program would not exist without fundraising! 
Concerns/Problems: 
If you have a concern and/or problem concerning cheerleading, please follow the chain of command listed below: 
1st Cheerleader to Coach(es) 
2nd Parent to Coach(es) 
3rd Parent/Head Coach(es) to Athletic Director 
4th Parent/Head Coach(es) to Principal 
Individual concerns/problems should be dealt with after practice/games. Please do not expect the coach to neglect the team during scheduled practice times. Please do not call the coach at home or on the cell phone out of school/practice hours. Only call during emergency situations. Please note:  Coaching/cheerleader issues should not be dealt with at a booster club meeting. Booster clubs are created to support the squad and coaches, Coaches coach and boosters support.





Handbook Contract and Acknowledgment 
I, ____________________________________________________ have read and agree to all of the policies outlined in the Cheerleading Handbook. I understand my violation of any policy contained within the handbook can result in my immediate dismissal from the squad or other penalties as deemed necessary by the coaching staff. If I am dismissed, I must return all of the items provided by Lanier Cheerleading and I forgo the right to participate in any cheerleading activities. Furthermore, I understand that there will be no refunds for monies paid to Lanier High School or Lanier Competition Cheer Boosters. I understand the commitment I am making. My parents support this handbook and its policies. I will respect the final decisions of the coaches. 
Student-Athlete _________________________________________ 
                                       (Please Print Name) 
Signatures: 
______________________________________________ ____________________        
​ Cheerleader Signature                                                    Date

______________________________________________ _____________________ 
Parent Signature                                                                Date