School Policies > Head Lice

Head Lice Most schools will have students with head lice at any given time.  Whilst parents have primary responsibility for the detection and treatment of head lice, the school also has a role in the management of head lice infections and in providing support to parents and students. Goal: To educate the students and advise parents regarding the control, detection and treatment of head lice. Implementation: The school will follow a comprehensive management plan that incorporates the following: The school will distribute up-to-date information on the detection, treatment and control of head lice to staff and parents at the beginning of each year and more frequently if required. A member of staff will be responsible for the implementation of the head lice policy. It is a requirement that parents refrain from sending their children to school with untreated head lice.  If a child re-attends school with live lice the school may again exclude the child until the live insects have been removed The school will provide parents with comprehensive advice about the use of safe treatment practices which do not place the children’s health at risk. The school will obtain written parents’ permission for all inspections including those by local government personnel and designated school staff. A pro-forma letter of notification will be sent to parents of those students found to have head lice. The school is committed to reducing stigma and maintaining confidentiality following head lice inspections.  After an inspection, all children involved will be given a letter, not just those found to have head lice. The school will provide classroom activities to give students an understanding of the habits and life-cycle of head lice in order to minimise the incidence of stigmatisation of affected students and families. To control the incidence of head lice, parents are advised to follow these procedures Regularly inspect (preferably once a week) child/ren’s hair for lice or lice eggs (using conditioner and a head lice comb is the most effective method). Regular inspection of all household members followed by treatment if head lice are detected. Upon detection of head lice, notify the school and advise when treatment has commenced. Evaluation: An evaluation of the policy will be undertaken as required. Resources: Schools of the Future Reference Guide Head Lice Publication – DET, Community Development Division – 25 January 2002.