FPDS Head Lice Policy

We want to clarify our school’s approach to head lice management, which aligns with the latest recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). These guidelines are based on extensive research and ensure that our policies prioritize both student well-being and educational access.

Lice:

The purpose of this policy is to ensure a safe, healthy, and effective learning environment by managing head lice (Pediculosis) in a timely manner. Head lice, while a common nuisance, do not spread disease but can cause discomfort and distraction. This policy outlines steps for the identification, treatment, and prevention of lice in the school.

Identification and Notification

  1. Identification of Lice

    • If a student is suspected of having lice (e.g., excessive itching, visible nits, or lice), a designated staff member will examine the student.

    • A diagnosis of head lice is confirmed if live lice are found on the scalp or hair.

  2. Immediate Dismissal (Grades K5–6th)

    • If live lice are found on a student in grades K5–6th, the student will be sent home immediately to prevent potential spread.

    • Parents/guardians will be notified and provided with educational materials on lice treatment and prevention.

    • The student can return to school after treatment and an evaluation by a staff member to confirm the absence of live lice.

  3. Classroom Lice Check (Grades K3 & K4)

    • In grades K3 and K4, when a student is found with live lice, all students in the affected homeroom will undergo a quick lice check conducted by school staff.

    • Any additional students found with live lice will be sent home immediately, and their parents/guardians will be notified.

  4. Confidentiality -The identity of students with lice will be kept confidential to protect privacy.

Treatment Recommendations

  1. Consultation with a Pediatrician

    • We recommend parents consult with a pediatrician for the most effective lice treatment options, especially if they are unsure of how to proceed or if over-the-counter (OTC) treatments have been ineffective in the past.

    • A pediatrician may prescribe stronger medications or offer guidance on best treatment practices tailored to the child’s needs.

  2. Over-the-Counter Treatment Options

    • If seeing a pediatrician is not a viable option, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments available at most pharmacies. These treatments typically include shampoos, lotions, or creams that are specifically designed to kill lice and nits.

    • Parents should follow all instructions carefully, and it is often recommended to repeat treatment after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice.

Attendance and Return to School

  1. Immediate Dismissal for Live Lice

    • Students with live lice in all grades (K3–6th) will be sent home as soon as live lice are detected.

  2. Re-entry After Treatment

    • A student may return to school after the first treatment and once live lice are no longer present.

    • Upon returning, the student will be rechecked by a staff member to confirm that live lice are no longer present.

    • Students will not be readmitted until cleared by a staff member.

  3. No "No-Nit" Policy

    • Students will not be excluded from school solely because of nits (lice eggs). Nits may persist after treatment, but only live lice indicate an active infestation.

    • If nits are found without live lice, the student may stay in school, but parents will be notified to continue monitoring and treatment as needed.

Prevention and Classroom Protocols

  1. Classroom Lice Check for K3 & K4

    • In the event of a lice case in a K3 or K4 homeroom, all students in the homeroom will be checked for lice. This helps ensure early detection and treatment.

  2. General Classroom Precautions

    • Teachers will discourage sharing of personal items like hats, brushes, or headphones to reduce the risk of lice transmission.

    • Students will be reminded to avoid head-to-head contact.

  3. Classroom Notifications

    • If multiple cases of lice occur in a class or grade level, a general notice will be sent to all parents in the affected class to encourage home head checks.

    • The identity of affected students will remain confidential in all communications.

We understand that head lice can be a source of concern, and we want to reassure you that we are taking all appropriate measures.

Research shows that lice are not highly contagious in classroom settings and that most children with lice have had the condition for weeks before symptoms appear. Routine screenings by those at home are the most effective way to detect and manage lice early. If your child exhibits symptoms such as frequent head scratching, we encourage you to check their scalp and consult with your healthcare provider if needed.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we follow the science-backed guidance that best supports our students. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Below are some websites regarding research of Lice Policies in schools as well as treatment details from Johns Hopkins Medicine:

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Head Lice Information & Guidelines
    https://www.cdc.gov/lice/about/head-lice.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/index.html

  2. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – Head Lice Clinical Report
    https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/135/5/e1355/60131/Head-Lice

  3. National Association of School Nurses (NASN) – Head Lice Guidance
    https://www.nasn.org/nasn-resources/professional-practice-documents/position-statements/ps-head-lice

  4. No-Panic Guide to Head Lice Treatment https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/no-panic-guide-to-head-lice-treatment