Seattle Public Schools

Health Information for the Start of School

Summary: Ensure a healthy start to the school year by reviewing the SPS Health Services reminders!

Health Services Reminders for Families

Students can go to any School-Based Health Center within the district. Please call the clinic to make an appointment. Locate a School-Based Health Center near you or use this interactive map to find the one closest to you.  

Student Immunizations

Washington state law requires every student to provide proof of immunization compliance to attend school. If you received a letter from Health Services about immunizations your student needs for school, please make sure your student receives the immunization(s) listed in the letter or provide documents to indicate exemptions.  

Send the immunization record to the school nurse or have your health care provider fax the record to the nurse.  

Immunization requirements can be found on the Health Services Immunizations page.  

Life-Threatening Health Conditions

If your student has a life-threatening health condition (Diabetes, Allergies, Seizure disorder, Asthma, etc.), the following items must be provided on or before the first day of school:

  • Life-Saving Medication
  • Medication Authorization forms
  • Treatment Supplies  

To ensure your student’s health and safety during the school day, Washington State Law requires that your student be excluded from school until these items are received by the school nurse. Please let your school nurse know if you have any barriers to providing these items so they can offer support.  

SPS Policy 3413 regarding the exclusion process can be found on the School Board Policies and Procedures page under “Student Immunization and Life-Threatening Health Conditions.”

Tell SPS About Student Health Updates

Please report any health issue your child has that could impact safety and learning to the school nurse.   Complete the Annual Student Health Update form:

  • Visit the Source to complete the form online in September.
  • Complete a paper copy.
  • You may also contact your student’s school nurse.

Medication and Medication Form

Ask your health provider to complete the required Authorization for Medications Taken at School. Each medication requires its own form. You and your health care provider must sign the form.

All medications must be in their original container and labeled with the student’s name. Prescription medication must have a pharmacy label.

Emergency medications must be in the building on or before the first day of school.

*Check medication expiration dates! Try to get medications that will last the entire school year.  

Prevent the Flu and Respiratory Illnesses

Schedule a flu shot for your student and family members.

Here’s how:  

  • Contact a School-Based Health Center (students only)
  • Seek care from your healthcare provider  

Look for upcoming announcements for flu shot clinics on the SPS Health Services webpage.

Take actions to help manage the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, and keep each other safe.

  • Get vaccinated 
  • If you feel sick, stay home
  • Get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms
  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Keep hands away from your face

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