When children are ill, keeping them home allows time for proper rest and recovery, while also helping to prevent the spread of illness to others. We understand that absences can be challenging, but ensuring students return to school healthy supports their learning, growth, and the well-being of all.

Please keep your child home if they are experiencing any of the following:

FEVER: A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher signals an illness that is probably going to make a student uncomfortable and unable to function well in class. Your child should stay home until he/she is feeling better and fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication (Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen) for at least 24 hours. (Ex: If last fever was at noon on Monday, they should not return to school until Wednesday).

GENERAL SIGNS OF ILLNESS: Unusual fatigue, paleness, lack of appetite, or irritability. These may be early signs of illness and indicate your child needs rest and monitoring.

INJURIES/SURGICAL PROCEDURES: Any injury that causes continuous discomfort or interferes with class participation should be evaluated by a doctor. Documentation from the doctor to return to school is required and should list any restriction in activities and physical education, and should have a duration.

VOMITING, DIARRHEA, OR SEVERE NAUSEA: These are symptoms that require a student to remain at home until a normal diet is tolerated the night before and the morning of school. They should be free of vomiting and diarrhea for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

RASHES: Rashes and patches of broken, itchy skin need to be examined by a doctor if they appear to be spreading or not improving, and a note must be provided stating the rash is not contagious. We may require that a rash be covered while your child is in school, especially if it is open or draining.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES: Any illness that poses a risk of transmission to others. Diseases such as strep throat, mononucleosis, impetigo (a common and highly contagious skin infection), and conjunctivitis (pink eye) require a doctor’s examination and prescription for medication. Contacting the doctor and using the medication as directed for the full duration prescribed are necessary. Once the medication has been started (at least 3 doses or 24 hours from the first dose) and your child is feeling well, he/she may return to school.

🛑If your child has been evaluated by a healthcare provider for an illness or injury, please provide documentation indicating when your physician deems it appropriate for your child to return to school and list any restrictions if warranted.

🛑Notify Mrs. Hoch, School Nurse, as soon as possible if your child is diagnosed with or treated for a contagious condition such as strep throat, conjunctivitis, infectious mononucleosis, head lice, Hand Foot and Mouth Disease, or chickenpox.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!

Your attentiveness to these guidelines helps us maintain a safe, healthy, and thriving school environment for all. Working together, we can support both individual wellness and community well-being.