Nurses ask parents’ help before new school year

Mon Aug 11, 2008, 02:21 PM EDT

Swampscott -
Swampscott school nurses are preparing for the new school year and hoping, they say, “that everyone has had a restful, healthy, fun summer."

They ask that parents keep in mind:
· Students entering Grades 4, 7, and 10 are mandated by state law to submit a copy of a recent physical exam, as are all students who are new to the Swampscott Public Schools. This physical exam form is due to be submitted to the school nurse no later than the first day of school.

· Kindergarten students MUST have their physical exam, complete immunization certification (Mass Department of Public Health regulations) and their certification of dental care submitted to the school nurse before they will be allowed to attend school. These forms will be accepted at kindergarten screening.

· A written physician’s order and written parental permission are both required in order for a student to receive medication (including over-the-counter medications) during the school day. The entire policy and required forms are located in each school.

· Parents should check for pediculosis (head lice) before their children return to school. Parents should be checking for head lice throughout the year on a weekly basis. Children who have attended camp are often checked for head lice when they enter camp, but rarely when they leave. A head check should be done immediately upon return from camp. There is a wealth of information on the web and also at all local pharmacies about treatments available.

· Several students throughout the Swampscott Public Schools are impacted by severe food allergies, especially to peanut and nut products. Therefore, for the safety of these students with this life-threatening allergy, several schools have restrictions about bringing peanut and nut products — primarily peanut/nut butter — into school. Parents will be notified if this restriction applies to their child’s classroom / school. The Swampscott Food Allergy Protocol is available at each school.

Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school nurse before the first day of school to discuss any health issues or concerns. Nurses are:

Clarke School — Mrs. O’Brien, 781 596-8812
Hadley School — Ms. Lann, 781 596-8847
Stanley School — Mrs. Cassidy, 781 596- 8837
Middle School — Mrs. Sussman, 781-596-8820
High School — Mrs. O’Malley, 781 596-8830