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Board reviews updated policies on physical screenings and medication; key changes clarify invasive exams, head‑lice handling and self‑carry rules
Summary
Staff proposed first readings for policy 5.35.1 (physical screenings/examinations) and 5.96 (medication at school) to define invasive vs. noninvasive screenings, streamline head‑lice procedures, require non‑expired meds, clarify emergency medication authority and adopt state statute guidance on student self‑carry.
Steve (surname not specified) and Rachel Barker presented proposed revisions to two student‑health policies during the April 7 work session: policy 5.35.1 on physical screenings and examinations and policy 5.96 on medication at school. Both items were presented for first reading; no board vote was taken at the work session.
On policy 5.35.1 staff clarified the difference between invasive and noninvasive screenings. They said invasive physical examinations would not be performed by staff except in emergencies; routine noninvasive checks—vision, hearing and head‑lice screening—would continue to be managed by school health staff. For head lice, staff said current over‑the‑counter products allow students to return to school more quickly after appropriate treatment; students found to have live lice or viable nits will be rescreened in 7 to 10 days to check for reinfestation. Staff also discussed using public health resources and social workers for more complex family situations.
Policy 5.96 changes include requiring provider orders or a prescription label that specifies time of day for medications administered during the school day, requiring refills to be co‑counted with a school clinic staff member when delivered, and rejecting expired medications. The update clarifies that emergency medication may be administered without a prior written parent/guardian authorization during an emergent event. The policy also integrates state statute guidance allowing trained students to self‑carry and self‑administer items such as EpiPens, inhalers or diabetes devices when the physician indicates the student is capable.
Staff distributed updated forms (asthma, diabetes and self‑carry medication forms) and said they will notify parents and update clinic workflows before the new forms take effect. The board had no objections during the first reading and staff will return for second reading and final adoption according to the usual policy process.
