Students: Communicable and Chronic Infectious Disease

Abstract:
This policy addresses students with communicable diseases, including HIV/AIDS. It states that the Superintendent will develop procedures for communicable and chronic infectious diseases for the Board's consideration. Under the "Administrative Procedures" portion accompanying the policy, the procedures for disclosing the diagnosis of students with communicable diseases including HIV/AIDS are not clear or well defined. The procedures for determining whether a student with a communicable disease may attend school are left up to a review team on a case by case basis. This seems to contradict the policy which states, "A student with or carrying a communicable and/or chronic infectious disease has all rights, privileges, and services provided by law and the District's policies...," which would presumably include the right to public education. The policy and procedures sections do not distinguish between communicable diseases spread by casual contact and those that are not. There is also no mention of universal precautions. This policy needs a great deal of clarification and refinement. Attached to the policy is the Illinois statute regarding "Child of school age diagnosed as having AIDS--Notice to principal"--which also describes notice to the superintendent, school nurse, classroom teachers, and persons who decide the child's placement. Clearly, this statute suffers from major weaknesses in confidentiality.

Publication: Policy Reference Education Subscription Service


Date Published: 1/1/1993

Pages: 4

Comments:
The policy for employees has been abstracted under the heading, 'General Personnel--Communicable and Chronic Infectious Disease'.

Location Code: 5265