Should I keep my child home from school??

So much learning occurs within the school on a daily basis that missing even one day can add to your child’s workload as they attempt to make up for their lost time. This is why it is very important that your child be in school every day. However, we understand that there are times when your child is sick and must remain at home. Below are some helpful guidelines when making the decision whether or not to send your child to school.

Your child can come to school if he/she:

•      Is fever free for 24 hours, with no fever reducing medication. This means, the temperature should be less than 100 degrees for 24 hours AND your child has not taken Tylenol, Motrin, Advil, or any other medicine that would help bring a temperature down.
•      Has had no vomiting or diarrhea for at least 24 hours. Please keep your child home if they are vomiting or having any diarrhea from an illness. Especially if these episodes occur during the middle of the night.
•      Has taken an antibiotic for 24 hours when being treated for an infection. This includes any bacterial infections such as strep throat or pink eye. It does not matter how many doses of the medicine you have given, the medication must be in your child’s system for 24 hours to be effective enough for you child to no longer be considered contagious.
•      Has asthma. Most wheezing is controlled by medication. If your child has an asthma plan and rescue medication at school, he/she can be managed by the school nurse during school hours. Students with asthma miss many days of school because parents can be hesitant to send them if they are having problems. Please call the school nurse if you are concerned.
•      Needs to take medication during the school day. (See information on medications in school) Follow medication guidelines so that the medication can be given by the school nurse.
•      Seems healthy to you!! Many times, children will say they don’t feel well in the morning, especially if they are tired. You are the best judge of just how ill your child may seem. It is not necessary for students to stay home every time they complain of a stomachache or a headache if you believe they are ok. The nurse will call you if he/she gets worse during the day. If you are unsure, call the nurse and discuss your concerns with her.

Remember: The school nurse is just a phone call or email away. If you are in doubt, please contact her.