Health Services

Following Links:  School Nursing Practice Framework™

 

MISSION STATEMENT

The Medford Public Schools Health Services Department is dedicated to fostering the health and well-being of all students, ensuring they have the opportunity to thrive academically. Our team of licensed registered nurses are also licensed as school nurse educators by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Medford school nurses uphold the principles outlined in The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), providing equitable access to a high-quality education through the promotion of optimal student health. 

School nursing is a specialized practice that protects and promotes health, supports optimal development, and advances academic achievement. Medford school nurses, guided by ethical and evidence-based practices, serve as leaders in bridging healthcare and education. They provide care coordination, advocate for student-centered care, and collaborate to create systems that empower individuals and communities to reach their full potential. Medford school nurses facilitate positive student responses to normal development; promote health and safety, intervene with actual and potential health problems; provide case management services, and actively collaborate with others to build student and family capacity for adaptation, self management, self-advocacy and learning. By addressing daily health needs, identifying health risks, and managing both acute and chronic medical conditions, Medford school nurses ensure that each student remains healthy, engaged, and able to perform at their best within the classroom and school community. 

The mission of the Medford Public Schools Health Services Department is to promote student health, enhance academic success, and help every student reach their fullest potential.

Medford School Nurses provide:

• Illness care
• Injury prevention, treatment of injuries that occur in school and post-injury accommodation planning
• Medication administration and monitoring
• Individualized healthcare planning for students with specialized healthcare needs and ongoing case management 
• Health counseling and health promotion
• Management of student health records
• Adhere to FERPA privacy standards
• Educate the school community on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention 
• Support student’s recovery from both physical and mental health diagnosis
• Health screenings (vision, postural, hearing, height, weight, SBIRT) and follow-up care
• Communication with students, parents, the school community and healthcare providers
• Communicable disease prevention and control
• Access to resources, health care services, and insurance
• Emergency preparedness and response

ILLNESS AND RETURN TO SCHOOL PROTOCOL

FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF

Infection control procedures are important means of reducing the risk of transmitting infectious diseases and promoting health and safety for the school community.   Please follow these guidelines to determine whether your student is well enough to attend school.  These will also be used to dismiss students and staff when symptoms develop while at school.   Dismissal of a student or staff with suspected COVID-19 symptoms will be done in accordance with the school district protocol by the building-based school nurses.

Please remain at home if these symptoms are present:

• FEVER or CHILLS- temperature over 100.4 F
• COUGH (not due to asthma or other physician documented chronic respiratory conditions)
• SORE THROAT when in combination with other symptoms
• CONGESTION OR RUNNY NOSE - any nasal discharge that is not clear (ie: yellow, green) when in combination with other symptoms
• SHORTNESS OF BREATH or DIFFICULTY BREATHING
• MUSCLE/BODY ACHES - not due to a strained or pulled muscle
• HEADACHE when in combination with other symptoms
• FATIGUE - unusual tiredness not due to increased activity or lack of sleep; when in combination with other symptoms
• NAUSEA or VOMITING 
• DIARRHEA -  frequent, loose, watery stools
• ABDOMINAL PAIN - greater than 2 hours or intermittent pain with fever or other symptoms
• RASH - any rash of unknown cause, or a rash that has blistered or has discharge.  Children must be rash free to return to school or bring a physician’s note stating they are not contagious
• PINK EYE (CONJUNCTIVITIS) - signs of pink eye include red, itchy eye(s) often accompanied by a yellowish discharge.  Conjunctivitis needs to be seen and treated by a physician before returning to school.

GENERAL ILLNESS : Students/Staff may return to school/work when:

COVID-19 POSITIVE TEST, SYMPTOMS: Please call your school nurse to discuss your return to school guidance based on the most current district, state, and national guidelines.

Respiratory Virus Guidance

FEVER-FREE without medicine for 24 hours. 

VOMITING OR DIARRHEA has not occurred during the last 24 hours and small meals are able to be tolerated.

ANTIBIOTICS:  24 hours after the first dose of antibiotics for any physician diagnosed illness, such as an ear infection, pink eye, strep throat, or pneumonia.

Cold, Flu or Allergy?

A school nurse will review your child’s health information for clearance into school in order to maintain protection from communicable diseases, identify your child’s health needs and promote health safety in school.

The following is a list of health requirements required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for entry of students into public school. Please provide documentation from your primary care physician when you register at the Parent Information Center located at Medford High School. Free immunizations are available at the Medford Board of Health by appointment. Please call 781-393-2448.

Immunization Requirements

Massachusetts state law requires that all students have up-to-date immunizations in order to attend school in person.   

This law applies to both international and domestic students.  

Students entering all grades must meet current Massachusetts Department of Public Health immunization requirements. School health records are reviewed periodically to determine the immunization status of each student. If it is found that immunization updates are needed, school nurses will contact caregivers and notify of the immunizations that are missing from the health record.

Verification of immunizations given at a doctor’s office, pharmacy, urgent care, etc. should be submitted to the school nurse to update the student’s health record.

• Immunization of Students Before Admission to School (105 CMR 220)
• Immunization Exemptions and Vaccine-Preventable Disease Exclusion in School Settings
• Massachusetts School Immunization Requirements 2024–2025

Massachusetts Immunization Information System (MIIS) Fact Sheet for Caregivers

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Medford Public Schools requires a physical exam for all students new to the school system and students in Grades Kindergarten and 7. Yearly physical exams are required to meet the requirements of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA ) for student athletes enrolled at the high and middle schools.

When your child enters Grade 4, an interval health history will be sent home so you may update your child’s medical information. The school nurses request you return it fully completed with all pertinent medical information to the school health office as soon as possible after you receive it.

It may be necessary for your child to receive medication during the school day. Our school district requires that the following forms must be on file in your child’s health record before we begin to give any medicine at school:

1. Signed consent by the parent or guardian to give the medicine. Please complete the enclosed consent form and give it to your school nurse.

2. Signed medication order. The written medication order form should be taken to your child’s licensed prescriber (your child’s physician, nurse practitioner, etc.) for completion and returned to the school nurse. This order must be renewed as needed and at the beginning of each academic year. Please download it here.

Medicines must be delivered to the school in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled container by you or a responsible adult whom you designate. Please ask your pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and home. No more than a thirty-day supply of the medicine should be delivered to the school.

When your child needs a medicine to be given during the school day, please act quickly to follow these policies so we may begin to give the medicine as soon as possible.

Thank you for your help.

MPS Medication Policy and Procedures

• Medication Policies and Procedures
• Parent/Guardian Authorization for Prescription Medication Administration
• Medication Letter

 

In accordance with regulations set forth by the state of Massachusetts, all MPS students will participate in the health screenings each school year. These screenings are performed by the school nurses and include hearing, vision, body mass index (BMI), postural, and SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral for Treatment). The school nurse will provide parents/guardians with specific information prior to beginning the screenings. Please reach out to your student's school nurse with any questions or concerns.

More information can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health School Health Services website.

Health Screenings by Grade

Vision: Grades K-5, once in grades 6-8, once in grades 9-12

Hearing: Grades K-3, once in grades 6-8, once in grades 9-12

BMI: Grades 1, 4, 7 and 10

Postural: Grades 5-9

SBIRT: Once in a middle school grade, once in a high school grade

More information about vision screening and follow-up:

Uncorrected vision problems impact a child’s ability to learn and interact with the world around them. In fact, some vision disorders are misdiagnosed as behavioral or learning disabilities. If you suspect a student has a learning disability, a complete eye exam can help detect any vision issues. 

Eye Health for Life

If your son/daughter has failed the school vision screening, you will receive a letter requesting that you bring him/her to an eye doctor for evaluation and treatment. Your school nurse also requests that you return the completed doctor’s note back to her. 

Vision Resources in the Medford Community

New Eyes for the Needy

Provides vouchers for those in need. To apply visit:

https://new-eyes.org/application

Cotting School: 

The Seamark Vision Clinic is located at the Cotting School  453 Concord Avenue, Lexington, MA  781-862-7323, ext 111.  Provides vision exams and vouchers for eyeglasses for students with physical, communication or learning disabilities. 

Learn about MassHealth Vision Care Services

Online affordable options:  

www.zenni.com

www.eyebuydirect.com

The Medford Public Schools does not endorse or recommend any product, process, or service.

References:

MA DPH Vision Screening Protocol

MA DPH BMI Screening Guidelines for Schools

MA DPH SBIRT in Schools: FAQs

 

Online resources:
www.zenni.com
www.eyebuydirect.com

The Medford Public Schools does not endorse or recommend any product, process, or service.

All athletes must complete online registration and provide an up to date physical (within 13 months) to the nurses office before tryouts. 

In addition, if an athlete has experienced an injury, illness or other health event that requires medical clearance to participate in athletic activities, please provide a note from a physician. 

When answering the questions on the athletic registration form, please provide as much information as possible (including dates of injuries, hospitalizations, etc). Nurses will email the email address provided with registration if any further information or documentation is needed for medical clearance. Please respond promptly to avoid a delay in athletic participation. 

Athletic Registration

MPS Concussion Physician Letter

MPS Post-Concussion Academic Recovery Plan and Accommodations

Information for Families Regrading Mobility Devices: Braces, Casts, Crutches, Walkers, Canes, Scooters and Wheelchair Use at School

To ensure student safety, all students who return to school with a mobility device (e.g. cast, crutches, and/or wheelchair)  must have a doctor’s order which includes the following: 

● Student’s Name

● Name and signature of the licensed prescriber and business & emergency phone numbers

● Date of the order

● Diagnosis and any other medical condition(s) requiring medication (if not a violation of confidentiality or if not contrary to the request of a parent, guardian, or student to keep confidential)

● Any restrictions (P.E., sports, recess, weight-bearing, stairs, etc.) 

● Date(s) of restriction 

● For crutches and/or a wheelchair, the doctor/provider must indicate that crutches and/or a wheelchair are to be used at school and that the student has been instructed in the proper use of crutches and/or wheelchair. Medford Public Schools does not recommend that a student with crutches be allowed to ambulate stairs. However, if a student’s physician is allowing this, it must be stated so in writing by the physician. Crutches and wheelchairs will not be issued or loaned from the Health Office. 

Exclusion from school may apply if the requested documentation is not provided.

The student will need to check in with the school nurse on the first day back to school so that accommodations can be made for his/her safety at school. If possible, the parent/guardian should accompany the student to the Health Office so that the following may be discussed:   

● Extra passing time between classes so the student can avoid crowded hallways, locker areas, etc. 

● Authorization for Medication at School if medication is required at school (i.e. pain) 

● Procedure for the use of elevator (if applicable) 

● Personal hygiene/bathroom issues 

● Any restrictions 

● Other accommodations and instructions

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your child’s School Nurse.

• MPS Wellness Policy 

 

While there is no "season" for head lice, school nurses tend to see many cases in the fall. While head lice are a nuisance, they are not considered a public health concern as they are not known to spread disease. Head lice are most commonly spread by direct head-to-head contact. Head lice move by crawling, and they do not jump or fly! Head lice are not related to cleanliness. It’s essential to check your child regularly for head lice, especially if they exhibit itching or discomfort on their scalp. How to Examine for Head Lice

Let's Learn About Lice provides valuable information for families dealing with head lice. It includes research-based approaches to treatment, prevention strategies, and a supportive community of parents sharing experiences and tips. 

If you want to learn how it should be managed with regards to a school setting, visit this NPR article or PEDICULOSIS (head lice) Management in the School Setting.

For more information, visit Fact sheet about Head Lice (Pediculosis) and CDC: About Head Lice

According to the CDC (2015), “The burden of unnecessary absenteeism to the students, families and communities far outweighs the risks associated with head lice." Medford Public Schools does not exclude students for active head lice infestation or when nits remain after appropriate lice treatment.

If you find lice or nits on your child, please notify the school nurse. This helps us to monitor cases and provide support.

Massachusetts Department of Public Health - Lead in Drinking Water for Schools and Childcare Facilities

Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan
Asthma Action Plan
Home and Hospital Instructions and Forms
MA Physical Exam Form
Permission for Release of Information Form
Post Sports-Related Head Injury Medical Clearance and Authorization Form
Seizure Action Plan

For general information on child health or parenting guidance, please visit HealthyChildren.org - Powered by Pediatricians & Trusted by Parents: the only parenting website backed by 66,000 pediatricians committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. 

All information on the MPS Health Services website is for educational purposes only. Information on this website is not intended to be a replacement for professional medical advice.

Asthma

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Signs and Symptoms of Allergies and Asthma
Back to School Checklist for Families: Asthma
How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI)
How to Use a Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI)
How to Use a Nebulizer Machine
What are Valved Holding Chambers and Spacers?

Concussion

CDC - HEADS UP
Example School Letter - Returning to School After a Concussion
Concussion Recovery Tips
Caring for Your Child's Concussion
Fact Sheet for Parents
Fact Sheet for School Professionals
How You May Feel After a Concussion & Tips for Your Recovery

Diabetes

American Diabetes Association
Joslin Diabetes Center
CDC: Managing Diabetes at School
Symptoms of Hypo/Hyperglycemia

E-Cigarettes & Vaping

American Lung Association: E-Cigarettes & Vaping
E-cigarettes & Vaping: What Parents Should Know
CDC: E-Cigarette Use Among Youth
FDA: Vaping Prevention & Education

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

CDC: About Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

Head Lice (Pediculosis)

CDC: About Head Lice
Head Lice: What Parents Need to Know

Influenza (Flu)

CDC: Flu
Flu: A Guide for Parents
MDPH: Flu Symptom Check List for Families, Schools and Child Care Programs

Life-Threatening Allergies

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Managing Life-Threatening Allergies in Schools
Managing Allergies in School: A Guide for Parents
Signs and Symptoms of Allergies and Asthma
Anaphylaxis at a Glance
Anaphylaxis Impact
You Need 2
Back to School Checklist for Families: Life-Threatening Allergies

Nutrition & Physical Activity

CDC: Physical Activity Basics
Active Every Day
BMI Information
5 Ways to Grow Healthy
Read Nutrition Labels
MPDH: WIC Program

Substance Use

Alcohol and Your Developing Brain
How Alcohol Affects Your Brain: A Guide for Parents
NIH: Get the Facts About Underage Drinking
The Adolescent Brain and Substance Use
MDPH Bureau of Substance Abuse Services
Resources for Parents and Educators
Preventing Prescription Opioid Misuse Among Student Athletes
Protecting Teens from Rx Opioids: Ask, Manage, Talk
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Substance Use Services Directory
Teen-Safe

Tick-Borne Illnesses

CDC: Ticks
MDPH: EEE (Eastern Equine Encephalitis)
MDPH: Lyme Disease
How to Do a Tick Check
Tick Identification Card
Alpha-gal Syndrome