Regular school attendance is vital for student success, but there are times when keeping your child home is the best decision for their well-being and the health of others. The TFSD School Nurse Program encourages families to follow these guidelines when deciding whether their child is well enough for school.

Your child should stay home if they have:

• Fever of 100°F or higher – They must be fever-free for 24 hours without medication before returning.

• Severe cold symptoms – A persistent cough, congestion, or colored (yellow/green) nasal or eye drainage may indicate an infection.

• Strep throat – Must be on antibiotics for at least 24 hours before returning.

• Vomiting or diarrhea within the last 24 hours – Your child should be able to keep down solid foods and have a normal bowel movement before returning.

• Eye infections – Redness, swelling, or yellow drainage may indicate pink eye, which should be evaluated by a doctor.

• Skin rashes or infections – Especially if accompanied by fever or itching.

• Head lice – Students should remain home until treatment has begun.

• Signs or symptoms of COVID-19 – Follow current public health guidelines.

When students are healthy, we encourage them to attend school consistently so they can fully engage in learning. Frequent handwashing, proper hygiene, and dressing appropriately for the weather help prevent illness and keep our school community strong.

If you’re unsure whether your child should stay home, please contact a healthcare provider or your school nurse for guidance. Together, we can create a safe and thriving school environment for all students.

Ensuring students have appropriate access to necessary medications while at school is an important part of the TFSD School Nurse Program. Nurses oversee medication administration, ensuring that all required documentation is in place and that medications are handled safely and appropriately.