95210 for Health

Students who enter PWC Schools for the first time are required to provide a physical examination which was performed by a qualified health care provider within 12 months of entering a public elementary school.  They also will need to provide an immunization record which is up to date.  If immunizations are missing the student may be required to obtain the immunization before starting school.

If students require prescription medication during the school day a written order from the physician is required.  The medication must be in a container which has a current pharmacy label.  If students require an over the counter medication a new sealed container should be provided.  Parents must complete and sign a form for the over the counter medication.  All types of medication must be brought to school by an adult, students cannot carry medication to school.

Parents of students who become ill or injured during the school day will be notified to come to school for the child.  This will include students with a fever, vomiting or diarrhea, unusual rashes, difficulty breathing or difficulty moving without pain after an injury.  Students who are ill with fevers, or vomiting or diarrhea will need to remain at home until the symptoms have been gone for 24 hours.

In 2006 the Virginia General Assembly passed a measure requiring that all rising 6th grade students receive Tdap vaccine before starting Middle School.  This vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).  This must be given as long as a child is 11 years old and more than 5 years have passed since the last tetanus vaccine.

Tdap boosters can be obtained from your doctor, military clinics or the health department.  Written documentation should to be provided to Gravely ES before the final day of school in June.  The summer months become very busy in doctor's offices so it is best to get the vaccine as soon as the child turns 11 years old. Documentation must be provided before a student can participate fully in the first day of Middle School.  If a child turns 11 years old after the first day of the 2010-2011 school year a doctor must provide a note stating the child will be receiving the immunization during the next 30 days.

There are lots of things that you can do to stay healthy when everyone else seems to be sick.  WASH HANDS OFTEN.  Bacteria and viruses linger for weeks on door handles, key boards, stair rails and telephones.  Touching your mouth, eyes or nose with germy hands is enough to get you sick in 24 to 48 hours!  Have children use only their own water bottles and avoid water fountains.  Routinely clean objects which young children put in their mouths.  Stay home and keep children home who are sick.  Children need to be fever free and to have stopped vomiting/diarrhea for greater than 24 hours before returning to school.