Winthrop High School

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

  Winthrop High School is committed to fostering the growth, development and educational achievement of all students by promoting health and wellness.  As a student here at Winthrop High School, it is our belief that your child will be provided with comprehensive health services that adhere to the requirements set forth by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.  It is our goal to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for all students.  

Our School Health department recognizes the link between health and wellbeing and academic success. We are committed to promoting health and wellness for all of our students through a comprehensive school health program. This requires that school nurses obtain updated health information on our students and that we adhere to the requirements set forth by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. 

· Massachusetts State Law mandates that each student meet the State immunization requirements before entry to school. A translated immunization record is required. 

· Parents of new students must register at the Office of Student Registration, provide an updated (within the past 12 months) physical by a US physician, along with completed immunizations. 

· Students entering grade 10 must provide documentation of a recent physical (within 13 months). Immunization records are reviewed by the nurse at these intervals. Please check with your PCP to be sure that your child has received the required boosters. 

· Winthrop High School athletes who participate in interscholastic sports are required to have yearly physicals per MIAA regulations. 

Please contact your school nurse if your child has any new health concerns (such as allergies, asthma, seizures, diabetes), any emotional issues (such as recent loss or hospitalization), special needs, required procedures or a history of a recent illness or injury. This will inform your school nurse of any restrictions or accommodations that your child may require. All information will be kept confidential and shared with individual staff members on a need to know basis only. 

PARENTS OF CHILDREN WHO RECEIVE DAILY OR EMERGENCY MEDICATION IN SCHOOL MUST MEET WITH THE SCHOOL NURSE TO INITIATE OR RENEW THE APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION AT SCHOOL. New medication orders are required every academic year. Medications should be brought directly to the school nurse by the parent, guardian or adult caregiver. 

All parents/guardians must complete and return the Health and Medical Emergency Contact Information. Please be sure to complete both sides of this card and return it promptly. This is vital information for the school nurses to have. Please be sure to update contact information and new health information as necessary throughout the year 

Throughout the school year, the school nurses will be administering and supervising several State mandated programs including hearing, vision, and scoliosis screening, and height/weight/BMI measurement. 

We value your support and partnership in ensuring a safe and healthy learning environment for your child.  

Sincerely, 

Meredith Hurley, RN 

mhurley@winthrop.k12.ma.us