FEBRUARY 7, 2017
THE VERNON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD CONVENED IN REGULAR SESSION AT 10:00 A.M., 201 BELVIEW ROAD, LEESVILLE, LOUISIANA. PRESIDENT WOODS CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER AND ON ROLL CALL THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS WERE PRESENT:
STEVE WOODS, PRESIDENT
ANGIE DAVIS, VICE-PRESIDENT
DAVID DETZ
VERNON L. TRAVIS JR.
JIM SEAMAN
ROBERT PYNES JR.
JOHN BLANKENBAKER
RANDY MARTIN
SHAD STEWART
GERALD COOLEY
ABSENT: DOUG BRANDON, JACKIE SELF, COL. DAVID ATHEY
There was also present Mr. James Williams, Secretary of the Board.
The meeting was opened in prayer by Angie Davis.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Angie Davis.
On motion of John Blankenbaker, seconded by Shad Stewart, the Board voted to approve the minutes of the February 2, 2017 regular meeting and dispense with the reading of the minutes.
Superintendent Williams and Mrs. Angel Williams, Principal at Leesville Jr. High, recognized Mrs. Isabelle Bursh, Art Teacher for her accomplishments in Art Appreciation. Mrs. Bursh stated that her goal was to provide art for all to love and appreciate. She was presented a Certificate of Recognition and thanked for her dedication to all students.
On motion of Vernon Travis, seconded by Gerald Cooley, the Board voted to accept the following employee retirements:
Hunt, Alice, teacher/LJHS
White, Barbara, lease bus driver/Pitkin
On motion of Angie Davis, seconded by David Detz, the Board voted to approve the following new/revised policies:
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES
CHECKS
The Vernon Parish School Board shall require, in accordance with state law, the President and Superintendent, as secretary-treasurer, or any two (2) officers or persons designated by the School Board, to review all expenditures and sign any and all checks issued in payment of said expenditures. The School Board authorizes the use of a facsimile signature device for those persons designated to sign checks. The Superintendent shall establish and maintain appropriate procedures for assuring the proper issuance of all checks.
GENERAL CONTACTS
All contracts obligating the School Board or school district shall be countersigned by the President of the School Board, the Superintendent, and/or appropriate personnel. Any person purporting to enter into any contract on behalf of the School Board, school district, or any school under the School Board’s jurisdiction, including but not limited to contracts with vendors or contracts of membership in any private or quasi-public entity, shall do so in compliance with policies adopted by the School Board and administrative procedures in effect at the time the contract is executed.
BILLS, INVOICES, STATEMENTS
The School Board directs that only authorized school employees shall sign bills, invoices, or statements in accordance with pertinent accounting procedures.
TEACHER CONTRACTS
The Superintendent shall sign each teacher contract.
SCHOOL CHECKING ACCOUNTS
The School Board authorizes principals to open bank accounts for their schools and related clubs and organizations. The use of checking accounts at schools shall be in accordance with appropriate accounting regulations and procedures maintained by the Superintendent or his/her designee.
The Superintendent shall be given authority to make changes on school checking accounts as each school principal or school administrator changes, or at any other time deemed necessary, without the necessity of any additional resolution being adopted by the School Board. School Board personnel shall monitor the appropriateness of each checking account and shall be authorized to recommend to the Superintendent the closure of any account deemed necessary.
Revised and recoded from DJAA: December, 2016
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§17:81, 17:83, 17:97.
SCHOOL ADMISSION
The Vernon Parish School Board shall admit students to the schools of the school district once the student has been registered for school by the parent or legal guardian, under such rules and regulations as the School Board may prescribe.
The School Board shall grant admission or readmission to school to any person who meets all of the following criteria:
1. Resides within the geographic boundaries of the school system.
2. Meets the eligibility requirements for school entrance pursuant to statutory provisions
3. Is nineteen (19) years of age or younger on September 30th of the calendar year in which the school year begins or is twenty (20) years of age on September 30th of the calendar year in which the school year begins and has sufficient course credits that he/she will be able to graduate within one (1) school year of admission or readmission.
4. Has not received a high school diploma or its equivalent.
5. Is otherwise eligible for enrollment in a public school pursuant to state law and the policies of the School Board and the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
If a person meets all of the criteria stated above, the School Board shall not deny admission or readmission based on any of the following characteristics:
1. The person voluntarily withdrew from school.
2. The person is pregnant.
3. The person is a parent.
4. The person is married.
The admission or readmission of a person who will be twenty (20) years of age on September 30th of the calendar year in which the school year begins shall be limited to grade twelve (12).
The admission or readmission of a person with an exceptionality shall be subject to federal and state law governing the age of eligibility for services for students with exceptionalities.
No child shall be admitted to school for the first time until his/her parents do the following:
1. Present to school officials an official birth certificate. A short-form birth certification card shall be acceptable. Only records from the local or state registrar of vital statistics shall be accepted for children born in Louisiana, except as otherwise provided herein. Children born in Louisiana shall be given a fifteen (15) day grace period to secure a copy of their birth record. Children born out of Louisiana shall be given thirty (30) days grace in which to produce a copy of their birth record. In cases where birth certificates and/or birth verification forms cannot be obtained, the school principal may accept whatever positive proof of age, race and parentage is available. It shall be left to the discretion of the Superintendent or designee as to whether or not a child shall continue in school upon failure to comply herewith.
2. Present to school officials satisfactory evidence of immunity to or immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases according to the age appropriate schedule approved by the Office of Public Health, Department of Health and Hospitals.
3. Present to school officials all official school records of school previously attended or information needed to access such records when transferring from another school to one inside the School District, including necessary authorization to obtain and/or access any and all records of the enrolling student.
4. Present to school officials as a prerequisite to enrolling in the first grade, evidence of having attended at least a full-day public or private kindergarten for a full school year; or satisfactorily passed academic readiness screening administered by the school system prior to the time of enrollment in first grade.
5. Present to school officials evidence of being bona fide residents of the school district, with limited exception. However, children temporarily residing within the jurisdiction of the School Board who have no permanent address, who have been abandoned by their parents, or who are in foster care shall be admitted to school, except as may be allowed by statute.
ADMISSION OF EXPELLED STUDENTS
No student who has been expelled in accordance with state law from any school in the state shall be admitted to any school in the school system except upon the review and approval of the School Board.
No student who has been expelled from any school outside the state of Louisiana or any nonpublic school within Louisiana for committing any of the offenses enumerated in state law shall be admitted to any school in the school system except upon the review and approval of the governing body of the admitting school.
ADMISSION OF STUDENTS WHO COMMIT A FELONY
The conviction of any student of a felony or the incarceration of any student in a juvenile institution for an act, whether committed in Louisiana or any other state or country, which had it been committed by an adult would have constituted a felony in Louisiana, may be sufficient cause for the Superintendent to refuse admission of the student to any school in the school district, except upon review and approval of a majority of the elected members of the School Board when a request for admission has been made to the School Board.
ADMISSION OF HOMELESS STUDENTS
Except as provided above with regard to students who have been expelled, no provision in this or any other Vernon Parish School Board policy shall be interpreted to impede the immediate or continued enrollment of homeless youth, as addressed in policy JBCBB, Homeless Students.
ADMISSION OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Neither the School Board nor any public school shall require the parent or legal guardian of any student to disclose the student’s medical information or special education needs prior to enrolling the student in a public school, unless otherwise specifically required by law.
Nothing herein shall prohibit a public school from providing an enrollment preference to a student with special needs when the student’s parent or legal guardian has voluntarily provided the school with information regarding such needs.
Revised: November, 1993 Revised: September, 2014
Revised: December, 1995 Revised: December, 2016
Revised: December, 1997
Revised: August, 2000
Revised: March, 2003
Revised: April, 2008
Revised: August, 2010
Ref: 42 USC 11431 et seq. (Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act); La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§17:151.3, 17:167, 17:221, 17:221.2, 17:222, 17:235.1, 17:238, 17:416, 17:3914; Singleton v. Jackson Municipal Separate School District, 419 F. 2d 1211 (5th Cir., 1970); Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators, Bulletin 741, Louisiana Department of Education; Board minutes, 6-5-08, 2-8-11, 10-14-14.
STUDENT ASSIGNMENT
ATTENDANCE ZONE REQUIREMENTS
The Vernon Parish School Board shall have authority and responsibility for the assignment, placement, transfer, and continued education of all students attending schools within its jurisdiction. The School Board shall require a student to attend the appropriate school as determined by the residence (domicile) of the student or the parent, legal guardian, or provisional custodian or if he/she is eighteen years old or has been emancipated by a court order, by the student's own domicile. However, the School Board reserves the authority and responsibility to assign and/or transfer a student to any of the public schools within its jurisdiction, if circumstances warrant. The parent or legal guardian of a pupil may file in writing to the School Board an objection to the assignment of the pupil, in which case the School Board shall review the assignment and investigate the circumstances in order to render a decision.
The School Board, by statute, shall be required to assign a student to attend any public school requested by a parent or other legally responsible person when the requested school has space available and is of suitable grade level, and the child resides not more than one (1) mile from such school. Such assignment shall be made if not specifically contrary to the provisions of law, rule, regulation, or an order of a court of competent jurisdiction. Assignment shall also be made without regard to parish boundaries.
Legal custody is defined as the legal status created by a court order which establishes in a custodian the right to have physical custody of the child or minor. Legal custody shall also include cases where provisional custody of a minor student has been granted to a person of legal age by the child's parents, or the natural tutor, or grandparents awarded custody. Provisional custody shall be verified by submitting a properly executed and notarized form attesting to the granting of provisional custody. The school principal or designee shall be responsible for monitoring the school enrollment list and shall immediately terminate and/or transfer an unauthorized student.
Any child temporarily residing within the district who has no permanent address, or who has been abandoned by his/her parent, or who is in foster care, shall be enrolled and allowed to attend school in the zone appropriate to the special circumstance of the child. Surrogate parents may be appointed when appropriate for special needs students.
VERIFICATION OF RESIDENCE
The School Board shall require verification of residence of those students whose residence is suspected to be outside the attendance zone of the school the student is attending. When investigating the residence of a student, the School Board shall attempt to verify the primary place of residence of the legal parent or legal or provisional guardian. Such verification of residence shall be based on such items as the following:
1. Voter registration card of parent or custodian, or
2. Property tax statement of parent or custodian showing homestead exemption, or
3. Certified copy of any judicially ordered tutorship, custody or guardianship of any minor child student not domiciled or in the custody of their natural and/or legal parents. Verification of the physical residency of the legal custodian, tutor/tutrix or nonparent shall also be required, or
4. Any other documentation as may be stipulated by the School Board.
ASSIGNMENT OF STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES
Any student who enrolls in a Vernon Parish school having sufficient records (i.e., current IEP and/or evaluation), indicating prior Special Education placement, can be placed on an interim basis after review by Pupil Appraisal office. Interim placements can only be made by the pupil appraisal personnel assigned to the particular school where the student is attending.
Upon arrival of a new student presenting sufficient documentation (i.e., IEP and/or evaluation), the counselor will notify the school coordinator and schedule a conference with the parent(s), receiving teacher, Pupil Appraisal School Coordinator and counselor. This process must be completed before the child can be enrolled.
Unless the Individualized Education Program (IEP) of a student with an exceptionality, except a gifted and talented student, requires some other arrangement, the School Board shall require the student with such an exceptionality to be educated in the school that the student would attend if he/she did not have an exceptionality. However, if the educational needs of the student cannot be achieved satisfactorily in a regular class setting, the student may be placed in an educational environment designed to meet the appropriate needs of the student, as determined by the IEP committee.
However, a student with an exceptionality, except a gifted and talented student, shall be assigned to a school as requested by the parent, in accordance with La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:1944, if all the following conditions are met:
1. The parent submits a written request to the School Board responsible for the student and the respective School Board having jurisdiction over the school being requested, by not later than April first of the school year preceding the school year for which the parent is requesting the school assignment. The request shall include a recommendation from at least two (2) licensed physicians who have treated the student during the year prior to the submission of the request.
2. The School Board responsible for the student and the respective School Board having jurisdiction over the school being requested by the parent enter into an agreement for the assignment of the student to the requested school.
3. The requested school is located at least ten (10) miles from the school to which the student is assigned, in accordance with applicable school attendance zone requirements.
4. The requested school is located at least fifteen (15) miles from the student’s home.
5. The requested school is not located in a public school district in which fifty percent (50%) or more of the public schools in the district are charter schools and fifty percent (50%) or more of the public schools in the district participate in a single application and enrollment process for public school enrollment.
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENT
Generally, student assignments in K through 8 will be made by the principal of the school. However, in some cases schools may be structured so that students in higher grades may select classes and courses of study. The placement of a student shall be based on grades, achievement test scores, and participation in special programs.
Selection of classes and courses of study in grades 9 through 12 shall be uniformly made by individual students. Assistance in planning course of study and selection of classes shall be provided by teachers, counselors, and administrators. Each student shall be furnished a schedule of classes offered and requirements for graduation. Some classes may have prerequisites for enrollment.
In grades kindergarten through second grade, the parent of twins, triplets, etc. (more than one child at a single birth event) may request that their children be placed initially in the same, or separate, classrooms, if the children are in the same grade at the same school. Such a request shall be presented to the Superintendent or his/her designee no later than fourteen (14) days either after the first day of the school year or after the first day of attendance if the child enrolls after the fourteenth day of the school year. Notwithstanding any law, rule, regulation, or School Board policy to the contrary, the request of the parent for initial placement shall be granted subject to further review.
As soon as possible after the end of the student’s first grading period, the Superintendent or his/her designee shall review the initial placement of the child. If the Superintendent or his/her designee, in consultation with the school principal, the child’s(ren’s) teacher(s), and the parent, determines that the initial placement of the children is disruptive to the school or is not in the best educational interests of the child(ren), the initial placement of the child shall be modified, and the child(ren) shall be placed in accordance with School Board policy otherwise applicable to the child(ren).
Revised: December, 1992
Revised: November, 1993
Revised: September, 2008
Revised: December, 2009
Revised: November, 2010
Revised: December, 2016
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§9:951, 9:952, 9:953, 9:954, 17:81,17:104.1, 17:221.2, 17:221.4, 17:221.5, 17:238, 17:1944; Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators, Bulletin 741, Louisiana Department of Education; Board minutes, 8-6-85, 10-7-08, 1-12-10, 12-2-10.
DANGEROUS WEAPONS
The Vernon Parish School Board shall authorize the principal of each school to automatically suspend, and recommend expulsion for, any student found in possession of a dangerous weapon on the school grounds, on school buses and/or at any school-sponsored event, at any time, during or after regular school hours, with limited exception as permitted by state law. A dangerous weapon means any gas, liquid, or other substance or instrumentality, which in the manner used, is likely to produce death or great bodily harm. When the student is found in possession of a weapon, the Superintendent shall be immediately notified and the principal shall take appropriate disciplinary action.
If a student is detained for carrying, or the principal or designee confiscates or seizes a firearm or concealed dangerous weapon from a student while on school property, on a school bus, or at a school function, the principal or school official shall immediately report the detention of the student or seizure of the firearm or weapon to the police department or sheriff's office where the school is located and shall deliver any firearm or weapon seized to that agency.
The failure of any principal or designated administrator to report the confiscation of such implement or material or the failure to retain and secure such implement or material may result in a misdemeanor. When a principal or designated administrator violates any provisions of this policy, a report on such violations shall be made by the complainant to the Superintendent. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall conduct a hearing on the alleged offense.
If a student is detained for carrying a concealed weapon on campus, the principal shall immediately notify the student's parents.
FIREARM-FREE ZONES
It is unlawful for a student or nonstudent to intentionally possess a firearm or dangerous weapon on school property at a school sponsored function or within 1000 feet of school property or while on a school bus at any time. The area surrounding the school campus or within 1000 feet of any such school campus, or within a school bus shall be designated firearm-free zones, wherein the possession of firearms is prohibited, except as specifically set forth in La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§14:95.2 and 14:95.6. The School Board, in cooperation with local governmental agencies, and the Louisiana Department of Education, shall designate and mark firearm-free zones which surround all schools and school property.
Revised: November, 1989 Revised: October, 1994
Revised: December, 1992 Recoded: August, 2003
Revised: November, 1993 Revised: December, 2016
Ref: 20 USC 7961 (Gun-Free Requirements); La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§14:2, 14:95, 14:95.2, 14:95.6, 17:416, 17:416.3, 32:292.1; Board minutes, 9-4-03.
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
It is the policy of the Vernon Parish School Board that the administration of medication to students at school shall meet the following conditions and limitations. As used in this policy, the term medication shall include all prescription and non-prescription drugs.
1. WRITTEN ORDERS, APPROPRIATE CONTAINERS, LABELS, AND INFORMATION
A. Medication shall not be administered to any student without a completed Medication Order from a physician or dentist licensed to practice medicine in Louisiana or an adjacent state, or any other authorized prescriber authorized in the state of Louisiana to prescribe medication or devices, and a letter of request and authorization from the student's parent or guardian. The following information shall be included:
1) the student's name
2) the name and signature of the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber
3) physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's business address, office phone number, and emergency phone numbers
4) relevant diagnosis
5) name, amount of each school dose, time of school administration, route of medication, and reason for use of medication
6) a written statement of the desired effects and the child specific potential adverse effects
B. Medication shall be provided to the school by the parent/legal guardian in the container that meets acceptable pharmaceutical standards and shall include the following information:
1) name of pharmacy
2) address and telephone number of pharmacy
3) prescription number
4) date dispensed
5) name of student
6) clear directions for use, including the route, frequency, and other as indicated
7) drug name and strength
8) last name and initial of pharmacist
9) cautionary auxiliary labels, if applicable
10) physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's name
Labels of prepackaged medications, when dispensed, shall contain the following information in addition to the regular pharmacy label:
1) drug name
2) dosage form
3) strength
4) quantity
5) name of manufacturer and/or distributor
6) manufacturer's lot or batch number
2. ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION: GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. Once trained, the school employee who administers medication may not decline to perform such service at the time indicated, unless exempted in writing by the MD or RN.
B. During the period when the medication is administered the person administering medication must be relieved of all other duties. This requirement does not include the observation period required in2.-Fbelow.
C. Except in the case of a trained unlicensed diabetes care assistant administering diabetes medications (if applicable) or in life-threatening situations, trained unlicensed school personnel may not administer injectable medications.
D. All medications must be stored in a secured locked area or locked drawer with limited access except by authorized trained school personnel.
E. Only oral, inhalant, topical ointment for diaper rash, and emergency medications may be administered at school by unlicensed, but trained, school personnel. Under special circumstances, other medications not mentioned above may be administered as necessary, as approved by the school nurse.
F. Each student must be observed by a school employee for a period of 45 minutes following the administration of medication. This observation may occur during instruction time.
G. School medication orders shall be limited to medication which cannot be administered before or after school hours.
3. PRINCIPAL
The principal shall designate at least two (2) employees to receive training and administer medications in each school.
4. TEACHER
The classroom teacher who is not otherwise previously contractually required shall not be assigned to administer medications to students. A teacher may request in writing to volunteer to administer medications to his/her own students. The administration of medications shall not be a condition of employment of teachers employed subsequent to July 1, 1994. A regular education teacher who is assigned an exceptional child shall not be required to administer medications.
5. SCHOOL NURSE
A. The school nurse, in collaboration with the principal, shall supervise the implementation of the school policies for the administration of medications in schools to ensure the safety, health and welfare of the students.
B. The school nurse shall be responsible for the training of non-medical personnel who have been designated by each principal to administer medications in each school. The training must be at least six (6) hours and include but not be limited to the following provisions:
1) Proper procedures for administration of medications including controlled substances
2) Storage and disposal of medications
3) Appropriate and correct record keeping
4) Appropriate actions when unusual circumstances or medication reactions occur
5) Appropriate use or resources
6. PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN
A. The parent/legal guardian who wishes medication administered to his/her child shall provide the following:
1) A letter of request and authorization that contains the following information:
a. the student's name;
b. clear instructions for school administration;
c. prescription number, if any;
d. current date;
e. relevant diagnosis;
f. name, amount of each school dose, time of school administration, route of medication, and reason for use of medication;
g. physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's name;
h. the parent's/legal guardian's printed name and signature;
i. parent's/legal guardian's emergency phone number;
j. statement granting or withholding release of medical information;
2) A written order for each medication to be given at school, including annual renewals at the beginning of the school year. The new orders dated before July of that school year shall not be accepted. No corrections shall be accepted on the physician's Medication Order form. Alteration of this form in any way or falsification of the signature is grounds for prosecution. Orders for multiple medications on the same form, an incomplete form, or a form with a physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's stamp shall not be accepted. Faxed orders may be accepted; original orders must be received within five (5) business days.
3) A prescription for all medications to be administered at school, including medications that might ordinarily be available over-the-counter. Only the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber or his/her staff may write on the Medication Order form. This form must be signed by the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber.
4) A list of all medications that the student is currently receiving at home and school, if that listing is not a violation of confidentiality or contrary to the request of the parent/legal guardian or student.
5) A list of names and telephone numbers of persons to be notified in case of medication emergency in addition to the parent/legal guardian and licensed physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber.
6) Arrangements for the safe delivery of the medication to and from school in the properly labeled container as dispensed by the pharmacist; the medication must be delivered by a responsible adult. The parent/ legal guardian will need to get two (2) containers for each prescription from the pharmacist in order that the parent/legal guardian, as well as the school, will have a properly labeled container. If the medication is not properly labeled and does not match the physician's order exactly, it will not be given.
B. All aerosol medications shall be delivered to the school in pre-measured dosage.
C. Provide no more than a thirty-five (35) school day supply of medication in a properly labeled container to be kept at school.
D. The initial dose of a medication shall be administered by the student's parent/legal guardian outside the school jurisdiction with sufficient time for observation for adverse reactions.
E. The parent/legal guardian shall work with those personnel designated to administer medication as follows:
1) Cooperate in counting the medication with the designated school personnel who receives it and sign the Drug Receipt form.
2) Cooperate with school staff to provide for safe, appropriate administration of medications to students, such as positioning, and suggestions for liquids or foods to be given with the medication.
3) Assist in the development of the emergency plan for each student.
4) Comply with written and verbal communication regarding school policies.
5) Grant permission for school nurse/physician/ dentist/other authorized prescriber consultation.
6) Remove or give permission to destroy unused, contaminated, discontinued, or out-of-date medications according to the school guidelines.
7. STUDENT SELF-MEDICATION
Only those medical conditions which require immediate access to medications to prevent a life threatening or potentially debilitating situation shall be considered for self-administration of medication. Compliance with the school policy for a drug-free zone shall also be met if possible.
Asthma, Diabetes, or the Use of Auto-Injectable Epinephrine
Self-administration of medications by a student with asthma or diabetes or the use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student at risk of anaphylaxis shall be permitted by the School Board, provided the student’s parent or other legal guardian provides the school in which the student is enrolled with the following documentation:
A. Written authorization for the student to carry and self-administer such prescribed medications.
B. Written certification from a licensed medical physician or other authorized prescriber that the student:
1) has asthma, diabetes, or is at risk of having anaphylaxis
2) has received instruction in the proper method of self-administration of the student’s prescribed medications to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis
C. A written treatment plan from the student’s licensed physician or authorized prescriber for managing asthma, diabetes, or anaphylactic episodes. The treatment plan shall be signed by the student, the student’s parent or other legal guardian, and the student’s physician or other authorized prescriber. The treatment plan shall contain the following information:
1) The name, purpose, and prescribed dosage of the medications to be self-administered.
2) The time or times the medications are to be regularly administered and under what additional special circumstances the medications are to be administered.
3) The length of time for which the medications are prescribed.
D. Any other documentation required by the School Board.
The required documentation shall be maintained in the office of the school nurse or other designated school official.
The School Board shall inform the parent or other legal guardian of the student in writing that the school and its employees shall incur no liability as a result of any injury sustained by the student from the self-administration of medications used to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis. The parent or other legal guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school shall incur no liability and that the parent or other legal guardian shall indemnify and hold harmless the school and its employees against any claims that may arise relating to the self-administration of medications used to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis.
A student who has been granted permission to self-administer medication by the School Board shall be allowed to carry and store with the school nurse or other designated school official an inhaler, auto-injectable epinephrine, or insulin, at all times.
Permission for the self-administration of asthma or diabetes medications or use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student shall be effective only for the school year in which permission is granted. Permission for self-administration of asthma or diabetes medications or the use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student shall be granted by the School Board each subsequent school year, provided all of the requirements of this part of the policy are fulfilled.
Upon obtaining permission to self-administer asthma or diabetes medication or to use auto-injectable epinephrine, a student shall be permitted to possess and self-administer such prescribed medication at any time while on school property or while attending a school sponsored activity. A student who uses any medication permitted by this policy in a manner other than as prescribed shall be subject to disciplinary action; however, such disciplinary action shall not limit or restrict such student’s immediate access to such prescribed medication.
Auto-injectable epinephrine means a medical device for the immediate self-administration of epinephrine by a person at risk for anaphylaxis.
Glucagon means a hormone that raises the level of glucose in the blood. Glucagon, given by injection is used to treat severe hypoglycemia.
Inhalermeans a medical device that delivers a metered dose of medication to alleviate the symptoms of asthma.
Insulin Pen means a pen-like device used to put insulin into the body.
Insulin Pump means a computerized device that is programmed to deliver small, steady, doses of insulin.
Other Permitted Medications
Self-administration of other medications by a student may be permitted by the School Board, provided that:
A. Medication Order from the physician or authorized prescriber and from the student's parent or guardian shall be on file and communication with the prescriber has been established.
B. The school nurse has evaluated the situation and deemed it to be safe and appropriate, and has developed a medical administration plan for general supervision. The administration plan may include observation of the procedure, student health counseling and health instruction regarding the principles of self-care.
C. The principal and appropriate staff are informed that the student is self-administering the prescribed medication.
D. The medication is handled in a safe, appropriate manner.
E. The school principal and the school employed registered nurse determine a safe place for storing the medication.
The medication must be accessible if the student's health needs require it; this information is included in the medication administration plan.
F. Some medication should have a backup supply readily available.
G. The student records the medication administration and reports unusual circumstances (as a general rule the student must record all dates and times he/she is self-medicating during school hours. The medication log shall be kept in the main office where the student shall record this information unless otherwise noted on the student's Individual Administration Plan).
H. The school employed registered nurse, and/or the designated employee monitors the student.
8. Acceptable School Medications
School medication orders shall be limited to medication which cannot be administered before or after school hours. Parents may come to school and administer medication to their children at any time during the school day.
Medications which may be considered as acceptable under this policy:
A. Medication to modify behavior (e.g., Ritalin, when the sustained action form of this medication is not effective.)
B. Severe allergic reactions ‑ must have specific written instructions from a physician.
C. Anticonvulsive medication.
D. Medication for asthma or diabetes.
E. Medication given in extenuating circumstances.
F. Non-prescription (over-the-counter) drugs will only be given if medical certification of extenuating circumstances and prescription is obtained.
G. Antibiotics and other short‑term medications will not be given at school, unless so ordered by a physician, dentist, or authorized prescriber.
H. The school nurse or trained school employee shall have the authority to administer auto-injectable epinephrine, as defined elsewhere in this policy, to a student who the school nurse or trained school employee believes is having an anaphylactic reaction, whether or not the student has a prescription for epinephrine. At least one employee at each school shall receive training from a registered nurse or licensed medical physician in the administration of epinephrine.
I. Other specific illnesses that require medication.
9. DIABETES
Each student with diabetes who seeks care for his/her diabetes while at school or while participating in a school-related activity shall submit a diabetes management and treatment plan on an annual basis. Such plan shall be developed by a physician licensed in Louisiana or adjacent state, or other authorized health care prescriber licensed in Louisiana who is selected by the parent or legal guardian to be responsible for such student’s diabetes treatment. School-related activities include, but are not limited to, extracurricular activities and sports.
A student’s diabetes management and treatment plan shall be kept on file in the school in which the student is enrolled and shall contain:
A. A detailed evaluation of the student’s level of understanding of his/her condition and his/her ability to manage his/her diabetes.
B. The diabetes-related healthcare services the student may receive or self-administer at school or during a school-related activity.
C. A timetable, including dosage instructions, of any diabetes medications to be administered to the student or self-administered by the student.
D. The signature of the student (if age appropriate), the student’s parent or legal guardian, and the physician or other authorized health care prescriber responsible for the student’s diabetes treatment.
The parent or legal guardian of a student with diabetes shall annually submit a copy of the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan to the principal or appropriately designated school personnel of the school where the student is enrolled. The plan shall be reviewed by appropriate school personnel either prior to or within five (5) days after the beginning of each school year, or upon enrollment if the student enrolls after the beginning of the school year or as soon as practicable following the student being diagnosed with diabetes, or as warranted by changes in the student’s medical condition.
Upon receipt of the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the school nurse shall conduct a nursing assessment of the student’s condition and develop an Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP). The school nurse shall be given not less than five (5) school days to develop the IHP and shall implement the IHP within ten (10) school days of receipt of the diabetes treatment plan. The school nurse must assess the stability of the student’s diabetes both at home and in the school setting prior to the development of the IHP for care in the school setting.
The parent or legal guardian shall be responsible for all care related to the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan until the IHP is developed, the parents or legal guardian have agreed to and signed the IHP, and the diabetes management and treatment plan is put into place by the school nurse.
The School Board may utilize an unlicensed diabetes care assistant to provide appropriate care to a diabetic student, or assist a student with self-care of his/her diabetes, in accordance with the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the student’s IHP, and regulations contained in Health and Safety, Bulletin 135. An unlicensed diabetes care assistant is defined as a school employee who is not a healthcare professional, who is willing to complete training requirements established by BESE, and is determined competent by the school nurse to provide care and treatment to students with diabetes. An unlicensed diabetes care assistant also means an employee of an entity that contracts with the school or school system to provide school nurses who are responsible for providing health care services required by law or the Department of Education.
In accordance with the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the student shall be permitted to self-manage his/her diabetes care as outlined in the student’s management and treatment plan.
With written permission of a student’s parent or legal guardian, a school may provide a school employee with responsibility for providing transportation for a student with diabetes, or supervising a student with diabetes with an off-campus activity. An information sheet with pertinent information about the student’s condition and contact information in cases of emergency shall be provided the employee.
10. ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION ON FIELD TRIPS AND OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
If a student with an identified medical need is to attend a field trip or other school-sponsored activity, the parents shall be notified to ascertain if any medication must be administered on the field trip or school-sponsored activity away from school. If so, the parent/legal guardian shall accompany the student to the activity to administer any medication.
If the parent/legal guardian cannot attend the field trip/activity with his/her child, the parent/legal guardian shall request in writing that the medication be administered on a pending field trip/activity by a non-School Board employee designated by the parent, or another trained person designated by the School Board. Such request shall include supporting documentation as outlined in this policy. The request shall state that the parent/legal guardian gives permission for the designee or another trained person to administer the medication. If the parent does not designate a non-School Board employee to attend the field trip/activity, once the proper documentation has been submitted, the School Board shall assign a trained School Board employee to accompany the student on the field trip or other school-sponsored activity.
11. EXTENDED DAY CARE
In the event that a student attends extended day care and requires medication outside school hours (before or after school), medication orders that include the dosage(s), time(s),and medication(s), shall be obtained from the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber before any administration of medication may be administered by properly trained personnel.
12. STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY
All student information shall be kept confidential. The parent/legal guardian shall be required to sign the Authorization for Release of Confidential Information form, so that health information can be shared between the School Board and health care providers, such as hospitals, physician, service agency, school nurse, and/or other health provider.
Revised: October, 1993
Revised: March, 1995
Revised: December, 1995
Revised: October, 2001
Revised: June, 2008
Revised: September, 2009
Revised: December, 2012
Revised: July, 2013
Revised: December, 2016
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. ''17:81, 17:436.1, 17:436.3; Health and Safety, Bulletin 135,Louisiana Department of Education; Board minutes, 1-10-95, 7-10-08, 10-6-09, 1-15-13, 7-11-13.
EXPECTANT AND PARENTING STUDENTS
The Vernon Parish School Board is cognizant of the problems of marriage, pregnancy and parenthood among students prior to their graduation from high school. The School Board authorizes the Superintendent to assure that such students have the opportunity to earn the education which they deserve.
It is recommended that a pupil who becomes pregnant shall notify the principal or guidance counselor in writing immediately upon knowledge of the condition. Pregnant pupils will be permitted to continue in school in all instances when continued attendance has the sanction of the expectant mother's physician. A physician's statement shall be submitted stating the pupil's medical condition, approval for continued attendance, and activities in which the pupil may not participate. The student shall keep the school administration continually apprised of her progress. The school shall not be held responsible for any medical problems that may arise with a pregnant pupil while she is in school.
Should the student need to be absent from school for a prolonged period of time, the student may enroll in the School Board’s homebound instruction program until released by her physician to return to regular classes. Any student who is not able to return to regular classes shall be encouraged to enroll in an appropriate alternative education program.
Marital, maternal, or paternal status shall not affect the rights and privileges of pupils to receive a public education nor to take part in any extracurricular activity offered by the schools.
After delivery, the student shall be permitted to return to school as soon as she is physically able, upon certification by her physician.
In regard to each expectant and parenting student, each school and the Vernon Parish School Board shall:
1. Maintain confidentiality in regard to the student;
2. Ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for the student;
3. Promote academic success for the student;
4. Utilize sensible attendance policies, taking into account all necessary factors; and,
5. Provide a supportive school environment that promotes high school graduation.
Revised: December, 2016
Ref: US Constitution, Amend. XIV, '1, 20 USC '1681 et seq. (Discrimination Based on Sex or Blindness); La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:221.7; Cleveland Board of Education v. LaFleur, 94 S.Ct. 791 (1974); Davis v. Meeks, 344 F.Supp. 298 (N.D. Ohio 1972); Holt v. Shelton, 371 F.Supp. 821 (M.D. Tenn. 1972).
On motion of John Blankenbaker, seconded by Jim Seaman, the Board voted to approve the following Headstart Policies/Procedures:
VPHS Financial Procedure Manual – VPHS Long & Short Term Goals
On motion of Jim Seaman, seconded by Shad Stewart, the Board voted to approve to piggy-back on Sabine Parish bus bid to purchase bus for Headstart.
On motion of Vernon Travis, seconded by David Detz, the Board voted to advertise for bids to sell used Headstart bus.
On motion of John Blankenbaker, seconded by Gerald Cooley, the Board voted to approve the non-promotional contract for the Rosepine High School Assistant Principal.
Mr. Travis reported that the Finance Committee had met and Mr. Ward presented a Board Docs informational slide. Mr. Ward also presented and discussed the Financial Audit – VPSB received a “Clean Audit” Report.
On motion of Vernon Travis, seconded by Shad Stewart, the Board voted to approve budget amendments related to personnel changes.
On motion of Randy Martin, seconded by Robert Pynes, the Board voted to authorize the president and secretary to pay the claims.
Superintendent Williams expressed his appreciation to all teachers in the parish for the positive impact they have in the educational successes in Vernon Parish. He also noted the Quiz Bowl on Thursday, February 9th at First Baptist Church in Leesville.
On motion of Gerald Cooley, seconded by the Board, the Board adopted the following memorial resolution:
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, the members of the Vernon Parish School Board wish to extend their condolences to the family of Wendell Wellman who recently passed away; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Wellman was a retired teacher and the husband of Nelda Wellman, retired teacher; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Wellman was a 1968 Graduate of Hicks High School, a long time resident of Vernon Parish and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends; now
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Vernon Parish School Board requests a copy of this memorial resolution be sent to his family at this time of sadness.
On motion of David Detz, seconded by the Board, the Board adopted the following memorial resolution:
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, the Vernon Parish School Board takes this means to express their sympathy to the family of Grady Arnold Kennedy who recently passed away; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Kennedy was the father of Amanda Patterson, teacher at Evans High School and the husband of now deceased Elaine Kennedy, paraprofessional at Evans High School; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Kennedy was a longtime resident of the Vernon Parish area and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends; now
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Vernon Parish School Board requests a copy of this memorial resolution be sent to his family at this time of sadness.
There being no further business, and on motion of Steve Woods, seconded by the Board, the meeting was adjourned.
__________________________
STEVE WOODS, PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
___________________________________
JAMES WILLIAMS, SUPERINTENDENT