JLCA: PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS OF STUDENTS
The School Committee is aware of the relationship between student health and success in school. Recognizing that parent/guardian bear the major responsibility for attending to the health needs of their children and that the school system has an interest in the well-being of its students, the School Committee adopts the following policy.
A. Physical Examinations and Screenings
Parent/guardian shall be encouraged to have their children physically examined prior to entering school and again prior to grades 2, 4, 6 and 9. Dental examinations shall also be encouraged.
Each student must be screened periodically to determine whether the student has sight or hearing defects. Vision and hearing screenings will be conducted as required by Maine law. Parent/guardian will be notified of any suspected health problems identified through screening. A student whose parent/guardian objects in writing to screening may not be screened unless a sight or hearing defect is reasonably apparent.
School staff are encouraged to be alert to the general well-being of students and should refer any concerns to the building principal and/or school nurse.
B. Participation in Athletics
Students who wish to participate in middle school or high school athletics are required to have a physical examination and medical approval before doing so. The physical examination must have been given within the past two years prior to participation. Students participating in athletics must have an updated pre-participation history form. If there are changes in the medical history, the school nurse should bring it to the attention of a physician and a decision can be made. A student whose health status is questionable and has been referred for further examination will not be allowed to participate in practice or competition until he/she has been examined and medically approved for participation.
Sports physical examinations are required for all interscholastic sports. In the case of financial hardship, the school nurse will work with the family to obtain a low cost physical examination.
Adopted: April 15, 1986
Revised: July 5, 1994; June 5, 2012: May 2021; June 1, 2021
Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §§ 6451 & 6453, 20
Cross Reference: JJIA – Eligibility for Participation in Athletic/ExtracurricularActivities
JLCB - Immunization of Students