According to current research and management policies from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, head lice are not considered a health hazard and not responsible for the spread of disease. Research also indicates that the normal classroom environment is not a high risk for the spread of lice.
If a student appears to have symptoms of having head lice, a private screening may be performed by the district nurse or trained staff member. If live head lice or nits are found, the student will be discouraged from close, direct head-to-head contact with others, but may remain in school.
- The student’s parent or guardian will be notified that prompt, effective treatment is necessary.
- The student will be allowed to return to school after being treated and there is no live lice found on inspection.
- It is unlikely that notice would be sent home to all the students in the classroom where an active case of lice is found, unless multiple students are infested. In such a case, parents will be encouraged to check their children for head lice for the next two weeks and treat appropriately.
- School officials will never disclose the name(s) of the affected student(s).
What Parents Can Do
- Teach kids not to share personal grooming items, hairbands, clips, hats, or clothing.
- Store coats, hats, and backpacks separately.
- Ask kids with long hair to pull hair back into a ponytail. Store hair care items separately from each other.
- Do not allow kids to lie down or place their heads on the carpet. Vacuum daily.
- Encourage kids to use their own pillow and blankets.
- Discuss with kids how lice is spread.
- Look around. What items are shared by kids? (headsets, helmets, costumes?)
- Screen suspected head lice case immediately. Note scratching.
- Notify your school and other parents with whom your kids have had contact.
- Recheck (rescreen) at least once a week. Make it a routine personal care activity.