Health Screening
The California Education Code requires periodic health screenings by grade level of students to detect health impairments that can impede learning and quality of life. Students can be screened at any grade level for suspected vision/hearing problems if referred to the school nurse by parents or teachers. Parents who do not want their student to participate may contact their school nurse.
- Vision Screening: vision screenings, or appraisals, are required in California schools and are performed for Kindergarten, 2nd, 5th and 8th grade students per California Education Code 49452. Vision screening includes distance and near visual acuity, and may include the use of a photo vision screening device. Color test screening is performed on boys in the first grade. If eyeglasses are needed for your student and your family cannot afford them, please contact your school nurse.
- Hearing Screening: Hearing screening is mandated in kindergarten and/or first grade, as well as in second, fifth, eighth, and upon first school entry (California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 2952 (c)(1)). Hearing screenings are conducted by a credentialed school audiometrist.
- Physical Exam: physical exams should be completed by your student's primary health care provider within the first year of attending school, either kindergarten or first grade. Here is the CHDP Physical Exam form, which includes the waiver if desired. Discuss with your school nurse if there are issues obtaining a physical exam.
- Oral Health Assessment: oral health assessments should be completed by a dentist or registered dental hygienist within the first year of attending school, either kindergarten or first grade. Discuss with your school nurse if there are issues obtaining a dental exam. Oral Health Assessment form: English | Spanish
- Scoliosis: 7th grade girls and 8th grade boys were historically screened for scoliosis. These exams are currently on hold in California. However, if you have concerns for your student, please discuss this with your site nurse or your student's primary health care provider.
Parents who do not wish for the credentialed school nurses to screen their child for vision, or hearing must provide in writing a note of exclusion to the school nurse. Parents who opt out of screenings may provide the school nurse with a medical summary from their primary care physician. (California Education Code 49451).