Massachusetts School Health law (M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 57 and 105 CMR 200.000) requires schools to provide regular health screenings for students. Also required is a follow up with the results of these screenings with families and referrals to primary health care providers as necessary.
Children who cannot see, hear, or are growing improperly may be having difficulty learning. We recommend having your child seen by a physician if they fail a screening.
In addition, comprehensive physical exams are required on entrance to school and at least every 3-4 years, i.e. in Grades K, 4, 7, and 10.
For details on school based screenings, see below:
- Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT): This substance abuse screening takes place in 7th and 9th grades.
- Vision: Vision screening is done yearly in grades K through 5, and in grades 7 and 10. Parents will be notified of any problems that necessitate a medical follow-up. Vision screening is also offered to preschool students.
- Hearing: Hearing screening is done yearly in grades K through 3, and in grades 7 and 10. Parents will be notified of any problems that necessitate a medical follow-up. Hearing screening is also offered to preschool students.
- Postural Screening: The state of Massachusetts mandates that all students in grades 5 through 9 be screened for scoliosis. Your child’s posture will be screened beginning in the fifth grade. Physician referrals will be made as needed.
- Growth Screening: Heights and weights are measured and body mass index (BMI) is calculated on children in grades 1, 4, 7 and 10. Parents/guardians may waive this screening by submitting a written request to the school nurse.
You may request a screening at any time if you are concerned your child has a problem with vision, hearing, posture, or growth.