The School Board recognizes its dual responsibility to protect the health of students from risks posed by infectious diseases and to uphold the right of students to a free and appropriate education. The District requires all staff to routinely observe Universal Precautions to prevent exposure to blood borne pathogens.
(cf. 4119.43 - Universal Precautions)
(cf. 4119.42 - Exposure Control Plan for Blood borne Pathogens)
(cf. 5141.23 - Infectious Disease Prevention)
The admission or continued attendance of a student with an infectious disease shall be determined by the Superintendent in accordance with current medical and educational standards. The Superintendent shall consult with the student's parent/guardian and/or other appropriate medical and state health personnel as necessary when making this determination.
( cf. 5112.2 - Exclusions from Attendance )
( cf. 5141.3 - Health Examinations )
Students with Blood Borne Pathogen Infections
The Board recognizes that HIV and Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus are blood borne pathogens and not casually transmitted. A student with a blood borne pathogen infection is entitled to the rights and services accorded to other students. The sole presence of blood borne infection is not sufficient reason to exclude a student from attending school.
The District recognizes that there are persons infected with blood borne pathogens who are as yet undiagnosed and, therefore, unaware of their condition. The District also recognizes that the use of Universal Precautions minimizes blood borne pathogen exposure. Therefore, the District requires all staff to use Universal Precautions when caring for any ill or injured student or coworker or when performing tasks (i.e., diaper changes) that could include contact with body fluids.
Parents/guardians whose child has been diagnosed with a blood borne pathogen infection are encouraged to inform the Superintendent. Upon receipt of this information the Superintendent shall convene a 504 Accommodation Team. After receiving a signed parent release form, this team shall request medical and other information needed to conduct a review of the student's educational and health needs, as well as the school's capacity to meet these needs. The team will make written recommendations regarding appropriate programs and services for the student. This documentation will be housed with the Superintendent.
The Superintendent shall ensure that all of the student's rights to confidentiality are strictly observed in accordance with law.
Legal Reference:
ALASKA STATUTES
14.30.045 Grounds for suspension or denial of admission
ALASKA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
4 AAC 06.060 Suspension or denial of admission
4 AAC 06.150 Confidentiality of AIDS information
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL AND PRIVACY RIGHTS ACT
20 United States Code, 1232g
NONDISCRIMINATION UNDER REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
20 United States Code, 794