School Requirements

  • Immunizations

    All students must meet the immunization requirements. Contact your nurse if your child has a bonafide religious objection or a permanent or temporary medical contraindication documented by your primary care provider, or have a signed exemption form to be enrolled in Garrett County Public Schools. Your child’s school nurse will be able to answer any questions you might have.

    PRE-KINDERGARTEN (3-year-old and 4-year old):
    • 4 DTaP
    • 3 Polio
    • 3 Hepatitis B
    • 1 MMR*
    • 1 Hib
    • 1 Prevnar
    • 1 dose of Varicella or physician-documented history of Chickenpox
      *Must have a second dose of MMR by 5th birthday to remain in school
     
    KINDERGARTEN - 6th GRADE:
    • 4 DTaP
    • 3 Polio
    • 3 Hepatitis B
    • 2 MMR
    • 2 Varicella or documented history of chickenpox

    7-12th GRADE: Please note that these immunizations must be obtained prior to entering 7th grade, in addition to the minimum vaccination requirements prior to entering Maryland Public Schools.

    • 1 dose of Tdap
    • 1 dose of Meningococcal
     
     

     

    Physical Exam

    A physical examination by a physician or certified nurse practitioner must be completed within nine months prior to entering the public school system or within six months after entering the system. A Physical Examination form designated by the Maryland State Department of Education may be used.

     

    Lead Testing

    Evidence of blood testing is required for all students who reside in a designated at-risk area when first entering Pre-kindergarten, Kindergarten, and 1st grade. The blood-lead testing certificate (DHMH 4620) or another written document signed by a Health Care Practitioner shall be used to meet this requirement. (All of Garrett County is designated as an at-risk area.)

     
     

    Medications

    In general, the administration of medication to students while they are in school is discouraged. If a student must have medication while in school, treatment schedules that allow doses to be given at times other than during the school hours are preferred and encouraged.

    The medication must be provided to the school by the parent/guardian in the original container. The Medication Administration Form must be completed and signed by the parent/guardian and the prescribing health care provider. This includes any prescription medications and over-the-counter medications. Inhalers for asthma, insulin for diabetes, and auto-injectors with epinephrine for severe allergic reactions are all considered EMERGENCY MEDICATIONS. These medications can be carried and self-administered by the student when appropriate and with authorization from the prescriber, parent, and school nurse.
     

    Vision/Hearing

    Vision and hearing screenings are routinely for students entering school in preK or K, for all 1st grade students, and again in 8th grade. Screening is also offered to new students and by those referred to by a teacher or a parent/guardian. If your child should show abnormal results, a letter of notification will be sent home with referral recommendations.

    Health Emergencies

    In the case of an emergency at school, the parents or guardian will be notified. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, the emergency contact will be notified. Be sure to provide accurate and updated contact information. Changes/updates can be made by emailing or calling the school. If an emergency situation should arise, and emergency medical services are needed, 911 will be called. All measures will be taken to support the health and safety of the students.

    Please notify the school nurse immediately of any medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, seizures, or life-threatening allergies to such things as peanuts, other foods, insect bites, or medications, which may cause an emergency with your child. Please provide the EpiPen and/or inhaler if ordered. The school nurse will work with you to develop a Health Care Plan to meet your child’s health needs.