Superintendent reports slight enrollment increase; medication-administration policy moved for action Sept. 22

Superintendent Dr. Shiflett told the Rockingham County Public Schools Board of Education on Sept. 8 that total district enrollment stood at 11,671 students (Pre-K–12 plus grad program and some day-placement students), an increase of 46 students since June and about 17 more than the same date last year.

Dr. Shiflett said K–5 enrollment was down slightly and that the district will watch counts through Sept. 30, the date he noted staff often use to understand Average Daily Membership and capacity planning. "Total enrollment, 11,671 students," he said, adding that the district would consider capacity projects such as an addition at Pleasant Valley Elementary School as part of its five-year plan.

On a separate information item, Dr. Shiflett reviewed a draft policy on administering medicines to students. He said the item was informational this evening after legal counsel provided guidance and told the board that any trained school employee could assist students in accordance with a prescriber’s written order and parental authorization. He recommended staff develop a training plan and return the proposal for action at the board’s Sept. 22 meeting.

Board members asked practical questions about how many students would be affected, who would receive training, and whether classroom teachers might be expected to administer medication. Miss Burgoyne asked whether training exists, how many students currently self-administer medicines, and who the expert is; staff said they would follow up with a plan and explore nurse-facilitator input. Mr. Cross said parents had sent about a half-dozen emails indicating the policy would affect their children, but staff said an actual headcount would require further work with school nurses.

The board did not take action on the draft policy at the Sept. 8 meeting; staff will return with implementation details and recommended training personnel on Sept. 22.