Head Lice
(Pediculosis) Policy.
Overview
Odyssey Charter School's School Nurse supports and develops appropriate and consistent policies and procedures regarding pediculosis (head lice) and the school-age child. Our approach emphasizes minimizing school absences, educating the school community, and preventing overexposure to potentially hazardous chemicals.
School Nurse
- Screening symptomatic student(s) and referring to parent for treatment
- Minimizing school absence
- Educating parent and school community
- Advocating for prevention of overexposure to potentially hazardous chemicals
Parent & Student
- Providing timely and appropriate treatment to rid the student's head of lice
- Providing ongoing surveillance of the student and other household contacts, and treating appropriately
- Communicating with the school nurse regarding treatment measures taken
Screening and Response Protocol
Initial Screening
The school nurse will screen for head lice if a child complains of head itching or is noted to be scratching his or her head excessively.
No Lice or Nits Found
If upon examination, no live lice or nits (eggs) are found, the student returns to class immediately.
Nits Present, No Live Lice
If nits (eggs) are present but no live lice are evident, the parent will be contacted to inquire about recent treatment if it occurred, and recommend the removal of nits. The student will return to class.
Live Lice Present
If live lice are present, the parent/guardian will be contacted, and it will be recommended that the student be sent home as soon as possible (and no later than the end of the school day, in accordance with state law) for treatment.
Treatment and Return to School
Treatment should commence promptly to minimize school absence. The school nurse will determine if the student has been treated adequately before the student may attend classes upon return to school after treatment.
What We Do NOT Do
Odyssey Charter School does not engage in the following practices:
- Notification of classmate's parents
- Mass screenings
- Insecticide treatments to school environment
Our approach prioritizes student privacy, family involvement, and chemical safety while effectively managing head lice cases.
More Information
For additional information on identifying, treating, and managing Head Lice, please review the following resources: