The
goal of health screening within a school setting is to detect
possible health problems. Early identification and correction
of defects will enable students to maximize their educational
opportunities during the school year. A good screening program
is well organized, runs smoothly and rapidly; is acceptable
to students, teachers, and parents; utilizes personnel efficiently;
has neither too many over referrals nor too many under referrals;
and is not diagnostic.
VISION
AND HEARING
The special Senses and Communication Disorders Act (Article
4419g, V.T.C.S.) was passed by the 68th Texas Legislature
in 1983. In 1985, this was amended by HB 2004 in the 69th
Texas Legislative Session. The law requires that all children
enrolled in any public, private, parochial or denominational
licensed childcare facility or school in Texas for the first
time, or who meet certain grade criteria (as specified below)
must be screened or have a professional examination for possible
vision and hearing problems. Vision and hearing screening
is also required for all special education candidates.
SCREENING SCHEDULE
A
student is exempt from the screening requirements if the
tests conflict with the teachings and practices of a recognized
church or religious denomination of which the student is
an believer or a member. The student or minor student's
parent, managing conservator, or guardian shall submit to
the principal on or before the day of admission an affidavit
stating the objections to screening.Each school nurse will
submit an annual report on the screening results to the
Director of Health Service. These reports are due in May
of each school year and are then reported to the Texas Department
of Health.
| Who
must be screened |
When |
| 4
yr. olds, kindergarten, or other first-time entrants
into Texas Schools. |
Within
120 days of admission or before the end of first semester. |
| 1st,
3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th graders |
Anytime
within the school year. |
| All
Special Education Students |
Anytime
within the school year. |
| Scoliosis |
5th
and 7th grade students and all students entering 5th
through 7th grades who have not been previously screened.
Any student by special request. |
| Hypertension |
Students
as needed or requested by student, parent, or professional
school staff member. School Personnel as requested. |
| Growth |
Height
and Weights as time permits. |
A
student is exempt from the screening requirements if the
tests conflict with the teachings and practices of a recognized
church or religious denomination of which the student is
an believer or a member. The student or minor student's
parent, managing conservator, or guardian shall submit to
the principal on or before the day of admission an affidavit
stating the objections to screening. Each school nurse will
submit an annual report on the screening results to the
Director of Health Service. These reports are due in May
of each school year and are then reported to the Texas Department
of Health.
Contact
Health Services
Coordinator for more information.
|
