MEDICATION IN THE SCHOOLS :

When a child requires daily or regular medication, the responsibility for administering such medication rests solely upon the parents. The Morris Elementary Schools recognize the need to cooperate with parents in the medical treatment necessary for each child’s physical, emotional, and intellectual growth and well-being. This is why the Morris Elementary Schools advise that only medications which are essential for the child to remain in school should be administered.

The following guidelines outline the school district’s responsibility for providing supervision for student medication which is considered essential to maintain the child’s presence in school. We recommend that parents consult with their doctor to see if midday medication could be adjusted and given at another time.

1. Prior to giving medication in school, a permission form which can be obtained from the health office; must be completed by the parent and the student's physician authorizing the school to administer the medication. It shall be the parent's responsibility to keep the school informed regarding a change in medication and dosage. A new form must be completed for each change of medication and at the beginning of each school year.

2. Medication must be brought in a pharmaceutical container clearly marked with the child's name, name of medication, dosage, and pertinent instruction. Nonprecription medication must come in its original box or container, complete with name and dosage of the medicine. No medication will be given if sent in an envelope or bag. Students may not transport their medications to and from school. The medication must be dropped off and picked up by the parent/guardian. Both the parent and nurse must count and sign in all prescription medications brought to school.

3. Medications are to be given only by the person designated by the school nurse or the building principal.

4. The school district retains the right to reject requests for administration of medicine.

5. Medications are to be picked up by the parent/guardian at the end of treatment or school year. If not, they will be discarded by the nurse in the presence of a witness and documented on the student's health record.