Thurman Francis Health News
Spring 2016 - Penny Tidwell, BSN, RN
Immunization Requirements for 7th Grade
- Tetanus-diptheria-pertussis booster (Tdap) Tdap is required for 7th grade entry
- Verification of immunity to varicella (2 doses or history of disease)
Two doses of varicella vaccine are required for all children entering 7th grade. If given before age 13, the doses should be separated by 3 months; however, the 2nd dose does not need to be repeated if administered more than 1 month after the 1st dose. If given on or after the 13th birthday, the doses should be separated by 4 or more weeks. A dose may be administered as single dose varicella or combination as MMRV. The certificate allows for serology, diagnosis of varicella, or history of varicella as designated by Healthcare Provider (MD, DO, APN, PA, or Health Department) - Those students deemed "homeless" who have not obtained any required immunizations shall be referred to the school's homeless liaison for assistance in obtaining their immunization record.
Parents of rising 7th graders may provide an updated Tennessee Certificate of Immunization, documenting the above required immunizations, anytime between now and prior to the student starting 7th grade. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Penny Tidwell (TFAA School Nurse) at 615-904-6715 or via email at tidwellp@rcschools.net
Be Sun Smart!
As the weather gets warmer, remember to protect your skin from harmful UV rays when you are outdoors. Think prevention!
- Put on a shirt
- Apply sunscreen liberally and often
- Wear a hat
- Wear sunglasses
- Stay in the shade
Sunburn can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun, but the redness and discomfort may not be noticed for a few hours. Repeated sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Unprotected sun exposure is even more dangerous for kids who have many moles or freckles, very fair skin and hair, or a family history of skin cancer.
Using Sunscreen and Insect Repellent at School
Rutherford County Schools Guidelines:
Sunscreen:
- Sunscreen must be age appropriate according to package directions.
- A Medication Authorization Form signed by the parent/guardian must be on file.
- Parent/guardian should instruct the student how to apply sunscreen.
- Sunscreen will be labeled and may be kept with the student in a specific location, with the teacher in the classroom, or in the Health Office, at the discretion of the nurse and teacher.
- Sunscreen must not be shared with classmates. If students do share, it may result in disciplinary action.
Insect Repellents:
- Only insect repellent WIPES will be accepted at school. Sprays pose potential dangers to students, especially those with asthma or respiratory issues, and will not be permitted for use at school.
- Repellent must be age-appropriate according to package directions and age of the child.
- A Medication Authorization Form signed by the parent/guardian must be on file.
- Parent/guardian should instruct student how to use wipes.
- Student may use wipes prior to outdoor activity.
- Wipes must be labeled and may be kept with the student in a specific location, with the teacher in the classroom, or in the Health Office, at the discretion of the nurse and teacher.
- Wipes must not be shared with classmates. If students share, it may result in disciplinary action.
Contact your School Nurse
Penny Tidwell, BSN, RN
Thurman Francis Arts Academy
Email: tidwellp@rcschools.net
Website: http://www.tfs.rcschools.net/
Phone: (615) 904-6715