Physical Exams: School Health Requirements Under Massachusetts State Law C. 111 and C. 76, no child will be admitted to school without the required immunizations. Children entering Kindergarten and for each year of Preschool are required to have a full physical examination prior to the start of school. Fourth graders are also required to have a physical exam. Once a year per MGL C. 71, s. 57 as amended screenings are conducted as follows:
Vision Screenings Upon entering Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten, or within 30 days after school entry unless vision screening documentation within past 12 months is provided . In the year of school entry , Annually through grade 5 , Once in grades 6 - 8 , Once in grades 9 - 12
Hearing Screening In the year of school entry , Annually through grade 3 , Once in grades 6 - 8 , Once in grades 9 – 12
Body Mass Index screening (BMI) for all first and fourth graders will be reported to parents/guardians. Parent/guardians may request in writing that their child not participate in growth & development screenings.
Postural screening for scoliosis required yearly in grades 5-9. NO parent opt-out allowed for this screening. If your child has had this screening performed during a physical exam within the last year, a copy may be sent in to opt-out the student.
In case of illness or injury, emergency care and first aid will be provided until a parent or other assigned adult responsible for the student is contacted. Please make certain that we have an updated Student Emergency Information Card for each of your children. Please note other special issues such as legal custody or known allergies. Always keep the school posted on any address or telephone number changes so we can reach you in a timely manner in the event of an emergency. Unlisted telephone numbers will be held in confidence. Parents must provide transportation home for any sick or injured child, except in an emergency.
Students may NOT bring any medicine, prescription or non-prescription (for example: inhalers, Tylenol, Advil, Lactaid, Cough Drops, etc.) to school. If medicine is necessary, it must be brought in by an adult. We only allow medicine in the original prescription container and a medication form signed by the doctor and the parent/guardian must accompany it. Most antibiotic medication schedules and 3 time a day medicines can be administered outside school hours.
Students must remain out of school for at least 24 hours after the initial dose of an antibiotic or if the student has an oral temperature over 100 F to decrease contagion. As you know colds, viral infections, sore throats, vomiting, diarrhea and all common communicable childhood diseases are highly infectious. Please protect your child and the rest of the student body by keeping sick students at home during the infectious stages of these common ailments.
For injury (fracture, sprain, eye injury, stitches, etc.), recovering from serious illness (such as pneumonia) or surgery, your child MUST return to school with a DOCTOR’S NOTE stating if your child has any limitations or can fully participate in school activities (such as gym, recess, or school sponsored sports/clubs).
Health Notes, Physical exam forms, Doctor’s notes, and any other forms that have medical information documented: Please send in a ‘sealed envelope’ addressed to the School Nurse.
Mid morning snack and lunch are available for purchase. If your child needs Lactaid milk you must arrange with the cafeteria manager for it to be ordered for your child. Please encourage your child to eat a nutritious breakfast and to get adequate rest. Scientific studies have shown proper nutrition and rest is vital for learning.
In support of state initiatives and the district – wide Wellness Policy addressing overweight and obesity concerns in Massachusetts, Brimfield Elementary School has adopted a Healthy Celebration Protocol. Student birthdays will continue to be recognized by the classroom teacher, but will not be celebrated with food items. Parents should not send any items in to share with classmates. Holidays will continue to be celebrated with healthy food items as designated by the classroom teacher. Classroom activities involving food items will continue as they relate to the curriculum.