Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reporting an increase in pertussis cases this winter. In an effort to minimize the spread of pertussis among older children, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois State Board of Education is requiring all students in grades 6-12 to present proof of receiving a dose of Tdap in order to attend classes for the 2012-2013 school year. Students will be excluded from school on October 15, 2012 if proof of a current vaccine is not received.

COLDS AND MEDICATIONS 

If your child has a cold with symptoms that can be controlled with minimal medication, please send medication in the original package with the student to the office. The office is unable to give out any medication without permission from a parent/guardian, including Tylenol, cough drops, cough syrup, etc. Any medication needs an authorization form on file in the nurse's office.

SPORTS PHYSICALS (Middle School Athletic Participants)

All student athletes are required to have a sports physical on file in the office BEFORE trying out for a school sports team. Physicals performed for sixth grade are acceptable for sports physicals if the appropriate box is marked on the bottom of the page. Sports physicals are valid for one year from the date of physical.

SCHOOL PHYSICALS 

Illinois school physicals are required for all students entering: Kindergarten or first grade Sixth grade Ninth grade Illinois schools for the first time The exam must be completed within one year before the start of school. If the physical or immunizations are incomplete, the student will be excluded from school on October 15th of the current school year until the physical is completed.

DENTAL EXAMS 

Dental examinations are required for all students in Kindergarten, Second and Sixth Grade. The exam must be completed within 18 months of May 15th of the current school year.

EYE EXAMS 

Online Parent Resources

Link on parenting from the Illinois Department of Human Services:

www.parenting247.org