Guidelines for Returning to School

Communicable Diseases/Conditions

If a student is diagnosed with a communicable disease such as mono, strep throat, chicken pox or conjunctivitis, contact the school nurse. This information is vital to help protect the students and staff who may be medically at risk from exposure to these diseases. Students need to stay home until they are no longer contagious. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Health Office.

Chicken Pox

Notify the school nurse immediately if your child is diagnosed or suspected of having chicken pox. There are MA Department of Public Health guidelines that govern your child's return to school. 

Conjunctivitis or "Pink Eye"

The student may return to school 24 hours after the medication has started and there is no drainage from the eyes.

Pediculosis (Head Lice)

This is an easily treatable condition. The school nurse should be notified when a case is identified or suspected. If you have any questions regarding lice we are more than happy to answer them.

Persistent cough or cold symptoms

The student must be able to participate fully in class without disrupting himself/herself or classmates by coughing. Many children have repeated upper respiratory infections (colds). If they are fever free and able to participate fully in class please send them to school. 

Strep throat and Scarlet Fever

The student may return to school 24 hours after starting medication.

Temperature

The student must be fever free (temperature less than 99.0) without having taken Acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (i.e. Motrin) within the last 24 hours. 

Vomiting and Diarrhea

Students should be symptom free and able to keep down fluids and food for at least 24 hours before returning to school.