• Head Lice Policy

    Description

    Lice are tiny insects that live in any human hair, they hatch from small eggs, called nits, which are attached to the base of individual hairs. The nits hatch in about ten days and reach maturity in about two weeks. As the louse feeds on its host, it injects saliva into the wound resulting in local irritation and itching.

    Physical Findings

    1. Presence of nits (small, round, or oval white specks that are very adherent) on hair shafts less than 1/2 inch from the scalp.
    2. Presence of lice on scalp, hair, eyebrow, lashes, or pubis.

    Management

    1. Any suspected case of head lice will be referred to the school nurse for screening.
    2. When a case of head lice is confirmed, siblings will be screened by the school nurse. If sibling attends another school, notify school nurse.
    3. Any case of head lice reported by the parent will be considered a confirmed case and must be checked by the school nurse before re-admitting to school.
    4. When a case of head lice is confirmed, the parent/guardian will be notified to pick the child up as soon as possible. Transportation on a school bus or van is not permitted.
    5. When a case of head lice is confirmed a parent advisory letter giving specific steps for treatment of head lice and re-admission to school is given to the parent of the child.
    6. When more than one (1) case of head lice is confirmed in a classroom, the entire class will be screened (any additional procedures are the responsibility of the principal).
    7. When more than one (1) case of head lice is confirmed in a classroom, a class letter informing parents of the presence of and treatment of head lice is given to the child.
    8. The school nurse must screen the child for re-admission to class.
    9. In order to be re-admitted to school, the child must be free of lice.
    10. Absence for head lice will be considered excused (lawful absence) for a maximum of two (2) days.
    11. Collaboration with daycares/child care providers may be necessary.
    12. Repeated cases of lice may need a referral (DSS, Guidance, Parent Education, administration for attendance).