Illness policy

Students may return to school following a non-COVID illness when: 

• Student has been fever free without the aid of fever reducing medication (Tylenol/Motrin) for at least 24 hours
• Student has had no vomiting or diarrhea for the last 24 hours
• Student has been on antibiotics for 24 hours following a bacterial infection, such as Strep throat.

COVID POLICY

• Students who test positive for COVID-19 must remain home for at least 5 full days (day 0 is the first day of symptoms or the date of the day of the positive viral test for asymptomatic persons).
• Individuals may return to school on day 6 if they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication AND other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving.
• It is highly recommended that individuals wear a mask when around others at home and in public for an additional 5 days.
• For students who test positive while school is in session, families need to contact their School Nurse.
• For students who test positive while school is not in session and are participating in school programming or activities, families need to contact the supervisor of the program (e.g. Adventuretime or Summer School) or Activities Department.
• This guidance applies to both unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals.

KINDERGARTEN IMMUNIZATIONS

Kindergarten immunizations are required by Iowa law, can be given any time after the age of 4, and do not need to be given with a physical. Please check with your doctor about having these completed as soon as possible, even if they are not yet due for their 5 year old physical. If your child has not yet completed these vaccinations,  it is important to turn in their most recent completed immunization form.

Health Concerns

Please contact me about any health concerns for your child. It is important for me to be informed so that I can make plans for a safe and healthy learning environment for each of our students. Health concerns may include, but are not limited to the following:  asthma, severe allergies, diabetes, seizures, and medications to be taken at school. If your child has any medications that need to be taken at school, please fill out a Medication Authorization Form, before school in the fall, and bring it in with the medication. If it is a prescription medication, it needs to have the original label from the pharmacy with the doctor’s name and instructions. 

Personal note from the nurse

My name is Stephanie Winter and I am in my 9th year as the school nurse at Karen Acres Elementary. I attended Grand View College and received my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in 2002. I worked at Iowa Methodist Hospital for over 17 years before transitioning into the role as a school nurse. I love working at Karen Acres and getting to know the students and their families. I have three boys that keep me very busy.  I enjoy spending time with my family and going to my boys’ many activities. I also enjoy baking, spending time outdoors and with our dog, Harlee.