Nurse’s Note Winter 2018

Nurse’s Note

Winter  2018

Regarding Medication at School 

• A written doctor’s statement detailing: Stu­dent’s name, medication name, dosage, method, length of time the medicine is to be taken, and a statement that it is required during school hours. This form is titled "Medication Authorization Form" and is located in the office, as well as online under Educational Services. 
• A parent/guardian statement indicating a desire for the school to assist the student as set forth in the doctor’s statement. Parents may be required to fill out an authorization form.
• Parents/guardians must deliver medication to school in the original container/label. Prescription labels must include patient’s name, doctor’s name and instructions.
• Self-Medication: Students will only be allowed to carry medication if the school receives a written doctor’s statement that it is medically required and a parent request form. Failure to follow directions/endangering self/others may result in loss of this privilege. All student medical information is confidential. (BP 5141.21a) 

When to keep your child home? 
Cold and Flu Season is upon us once again! With the winter comes a new batch of germs for us to share. We are all doing our best to prevent the spread to each other as much as possible. This is a great time to review the recommendation regarding when to keep your student home if he/she has:

• Fever in the past 24 hours (must be fever free-less than 99.6 without pain/fever reliever medication to return to school). 
• Vomiting in the past 24 hours
• Diarrhea in the past 24 hours 
• Strep throat (must have been taking an antibiotic for at least 24 hours before returning to school).
• Bad cold, with a very runny nose or bad cough, especially if it has kept the student awake at night. 
• Pink or red eyes with drainage 
• 
  

**When your child visits a doctor due to an illness or injury, please obtain a medical clearance from your child’s physician before he/she returns to school**

Flu Clinic Schedule
Kings County Public Health Department

Flu season is around the corner! Protect yourself and your family this season with an annual flu vaccine. While the timing of flu season is unpredictable, seasonal flu activity can begin as early as October and last as late as May. CDC recommends that people get vaccinated by the end of October, if possible, you have the power to protect your family against flu this season. Get yourself and your family a flu vaccine. The Kings County Public Health Department will offer influenza vaccines at the locations. The fee should be covered by your health insurance plan or it is $8 person. Please check the schedule for clinics in your area from this link:
https://www.countyofkings.com/home/showdocument?id=19313

 All persons 6 mos. and older should get vaccinated each year. The following groups are especially encouraged to be vaccinated:

• Children 6 months to 5 years 
• People and family members of people with Serious Medical Conditions such as: Asthma Chronic diseases of the lungs, heart, or kidneys Compromised immune systems 
• Pregnant women and their family members 
• People older than 50 years 
• Family members of infants under 6 months 
• Health care workers 
• American Indian/Alaska Natives 
• Those who are morbidly obese 

 Take 3 actions to fight the flu:
 https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/take3-fight-flu-infographic.pdf 

 If you have any questions or health care concerns, please feel free to contact me 559-583-5902 ext. 4038.

 Somjai Cochran, RN, BSN
HJUHSD District Nurse
scochran@hjuhsd.k12.ca.us

Nurse's Note: School's Out for Summer!

NURSE’S NOTE
Somjai Cochran, RN, BSN, PHN
559-583-5902 ext. 4038

As many of you know summer is approaching. That means flip flop, bathing suit and sun exposure. Your skin is exposed to the sun when you spend time outside such as walking to the school, swimming, or outdoor camping. The sun has ultraviolet (UV) rays that can harm your skin. Sun exposure during your teen years can lead to greater risk for serious complications as an adult, such as eye problems, skin damage, skin cancer, etc. Please remember to pay more attention to your personal hygiene. You sweat more during the summer and may cause more body odors. Good personal hygiene is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good health.

WAYS TO AVOID SUN EXPOSURE

• Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher every day. 
• Use water resistant sunscreen when exposed to water (water reduces sunscreen protection) 
• Limit sun exposure during certain times of the day (The most UV rays is b/w 10 am - 2 pm) 
• Wear protective coverings such as hat, long sleeve cotton shirt, sunglasses, etc. 
•  Seek shade

TIPS TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN

• Do not apply sunscreen on babies 6 months old or younger Keeping babies covered and in shade is best 
• Check your skin head-to-toe each month, paying careful attention to any suspicious growths Seek medical evaluation if you have abnormal skin appearance 
• Consider the risks of using a tanning bed. The light in a tanning bed can be more intense and harmful than the sun. Some states have laws that do not allow children under the age of 18 to use a tanning bed

HYGIENE FOR TEENAGERS

TIP FOR PARENTS

• Set an example - Leading by a good example is often the best teacher. Your child watches how you treat your own skin, hair, nails, lips and teeth. 
• Make good hygiene a responsibility -- start teaching them a routine and responsibility of body care at an early age will carry into the teen years and adulthood 
• Get some professional backup. If you're having trouble getting through to your teen about a particular hygiene issue, make the pediatrician an ally 
• Supply nice-smelling soap, shampoo, etc. to encourage cleanliness and make bath time something to look forward to.

TIP FOR TEENS

• Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day 
•  Wash your body daily - carefully dry five body zones (feet, face, hands, armpits and bottom) and use deodorant 
• Wash your face at least twice a day and wash your hair regularly – oily face and hair can clog up your facial pores and cause pimples 
• Remember to scrub under your fingernails. 
•  Wash the area between your legs 
•  Wear clean clothes, socks, and underpants. 
• Put on shoes that have aired out overnight (or longer). 
• If you are thinking about removing body hair, make that choice carefully. Before shaving, waxing or plucking, discuss with your parents 
• Don’t share personal items (toothbrush, hairbrush, washcloth, towel, cup and razor) with other people

**Eating healthy food + get at least 8 hours of sleep + exercise + good hygiene = GOOD HEALTH**


NURSE’S NOTE TO PARENTS

As the school year is coming to a close, please remember the following in regard to your child’s medication at school:

• Pick up all remaining medication in the nurse’s office on the last day of school. Leftover medication cannot be maintained over the summer and will be disposed 
• If your child needs to have medication kept at school, please have your child’s physician fill out the Medication in School Form A new school medication form is required each school year. You can pick up the form at the nurse office or download it from the district’s website 
• Before school starts in August, please bring the updated medication order and properly labeled medication to your child’s school site or to walk-thru registration 
• Please let the Health Office Staff know if your child has any health concerns. We love and care about our students and would like to have a plan of care in place for your child. 

***Please remember students can only be allowed to self-carry and self-administer emergency medications (such as inhaler, glucagon, EpiPen, solu-cortef), if the school is provided with Medication in School Form. Failure to properly follow directions or endanger self or others will result in a loss of this privilege***


IMMUNIZATIONS REQUIRED FOR INCOMING FRESHMEN

• Polio: 4 doses (3 doses is ok, if last one was given on or after the 4th birthday) 
• Dtap: 5 doses (4 doses meet requirement, if last one was given on or after the 4th birthday) 
• MMR: 2 doses Hepatitis B: 3 doses Varicella: 2 dose Tdap Booster: 1 dose

RECOMMENDED IMMUNIZATION FOR TEENS

• Meningococcal (MCV 4) is a serious illness caused by bacteria that can infect the blood or areas around the brain and spinal cord. Infection can lead to brain damage, disability, and rapid death It is the most common form of meningococcal disease. Common symptoms of meningitis include stiff neck, headache, and high fever Meningococcal Vaccines can help prevent meningococcal disease ***College freshman in dorms are at higher risk of catching meningococcal disease*** 
• Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Is the most common sexually transmitted infection HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms You also can develop symptoms years after you are infected HPV can cause cervical and other cancers, such as oropharyngeal cancer, cancer of genital areas, etc. There are vaccines that can stop these health problems from happening *Check with your health care provider about which MCV4 vaccines and HPV vaccines your child needs* 
• College immunization checklist Make sure your child is up-to-date for the requirement. Some of these are recommended and others are required for enrollment. Check with your child’s college: 
• MMR - 2 doses Tdap - 1 dose Varicella – 2 doses Hepatitis B - 3 doses HPV (recommended) – 3 doses MCV4 (recommended) – check with your child’s doctor

Volunteers Needed: 2018 HJUHSD Senior Ethics Workshops

You can make a difference!

The Hanford Joint Union High School District is seeking local business leaders and other community volunteers to serve as Table Leaders for the annual HJUHSD Senior Ethics Workshops.

More than 60 volunteers are needed for each day to help guide small groups of students through discussions of real-world values, ethics and decision-making.

2018 HJUHSD Senior Ethics Table Leader Registration Form

Dates: 

April 10, 2018 - Hanford West

April 11, 2018 - Sierra Pacific and Earl F Johnson

April 12, 2018 - Hanford High 

Time: 

 8 am - 1:30 pm 

Location: 

Koinonia Hall

12536 Hanford-Armona Road

Hanford, CA 93230 

If you have any questions, please contact:

• Ruben Amavisca - Hanford West - 559-583-5903 x 6027 ramavisca@hjuhsd.org 
• Cindi Homburg - Hanford High - 559-583-5902 x 4011 chomburg@hjuhsd.org
• Casandra O'Brien - Sierra Pacific - 559-583-5912 x 2306 cobrien@hjuhsd.org
• Irma Montano - Earl F. Johnson - 559-583-5904 imontano@hjuhsd.org

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Safety Procedures: A Message from the Superintendent

Our nation has seen too many incidents of tragic and frightening violence in our public schools. Keeping students and staff safe and providing a solid instructional environment is our district’s top priority.

At HJUHSD, we have safety practices in place to help protect our students from physical harm and to foster a healthy, productive environment for them everyday. We review these policies and procedures regularly to ensure our schools are among the safest places they can be. These protocols include:

• Controlled Access: Perimeter fencing is in place around all campuses and all exterior gates remained locked and monitored during school hours. 
• Visitor Registration: All school visitors must enter through the school office and register with school safety staff before gaining access to school grounds.
• Identification Badges: All district staff and guests must wear district ID badges at all times on school grounds.
• Video Cameras: Digital cameras monitor and record activity throughout our campuses. This helps staff and law enforcement deter and investigate vandalism, theft, fights or other dangerous or criminal activities in and around our schools.
• School Resource Officers: Our district has a strong partnership with the Hanford Police Department. Specially trained HPD officers are assigned to our schools to provide security, perform safety duties, and investigate student safety issues.
• Tip Lines: Tip lines allow anyone to call or text to alert authorities about potential issues.
• HH: 583-7877 (PUPS)
• HW: 584-4947 (HWHS)
• SP: 640-7447
• EF: 582-1515
• Emergency Training and Safety Drills: Regular safety drills ensure our students and staff know what to do in the event of an emergency. Drills include but are not limited to: Evacuation, Shelter-in-Place, Lockdown, and Drop, Cover, and Hold.
• School Safety Plan: Each School has a thorough Safety Plan in place that is reviewed and updated regularly. These plans encompass many issues designed to prevent and prepare for a variety of emergency events. School safety teams discuss these issues throughout the year to be prepared to respond in a timely and accurate manner should the need arise.
• Counseling and Mental Health Support: School counselors and psychologists and local health agencies are available for students struggling with personal issues and strive to support the health and safety of all students.
• Crisis Communications: The district has a robust communications plan in place to ensure key staff are informed of an emergency situation. In turn, parents and other stakeholders can be informed quickly via phone, email and social media of any information about emergencies or credible threats to student safety. Our goal is to quickly and accurately communicate essential information to first responders, district staff, students, parents and community members as needed to ensure student safety throughout any emergency. Be assured that if we have any information about safety issues or even credible potential concerns, we will communicate those with our staff and parents as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Even with all the above measures, school safety is community effort. I encourage all of our students, staff, parents and community members to report any safety concerns to school administration or local law enforcement.

I welcome your ideas, questions or concerns you may have regarding school safety or emergency preparedness.

Thank you,

William L. Fishbough
Superintendent
Hanford Joint Union High School District

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Student Safety: A message from the Superintendent

Student Safety: A message from HJUHSD Superintendent William Fishbough

As tragic mass shootings continue to plague our nation in increasing numbers every year, I know many of our parents, students, staff and community members are concerned about local school safety, as well.

While we have no credible information about any current threats of violence at our schools, we always take student safety very seriously: Training for and practicing emergency response plans, partnering with local law enforcement to quickly and completely address any potential threats, and working with community health services to help students and families who need support. 

Above and beyond precautionary plans, our school communities strive to create a school environment that fosters a strong sense of safety and community. We are committed to helping our students become educated, compassionate members of society and supporting their potential to making our community and our world a better place.

Our hearts go out to all of the families involved in the recent school shooting in Florida and every other one of the 290 school shootings that have occurred in our country since 2013.

These numbers are frightening and we understand that families are rightfully concerned about even vague possibilities of such tragedies happening in our own schools or communities. 

While we urge care to not spread the unfounded rumors that always seem to follow national school gun violence news, we do support parents in talking to children about violence and encourage parents, students, staff and others to report any specific concerns about school safety to your school administration or local law enforcement. 

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Nurse's Newsletter: Winter Health

NURSE’S NEWSLETTER

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

December 2017

Winter Health Reminders:

A healthy school environment requires the cooperation and effort of us all working together. During this time of year we tend to see a higher incidence of strep throat, respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses. The nurses of HJUHSD would like to remind everyone that they can help to protect themself and their families from many of illnesses. Follow the Habits for Good Health listed below recommended by the Center for Disease Control:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have a tissue, cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water especially after you cough or sneeze. If you are not near water, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

• Stay away as much as you can from people who are sick. If you or your child gets the flu, stay home from work or school. Do not go near other people so that you don’t make them sick too.

• Try not to touch your eyes or mouth. Germs often spread this way.

• Dress for the weather. Come to school dressed for the winter. Remember, the air that is trapped inside your clothing, warmed by your body heat, is the best protection from the cold.

Handwashing - Do You Know?

• Nearly 22 million school days are lost each year due to the common cold.
• 52.2 million cases of the common cold affect children under 17 each year.
• Children have about 6-10 colds a year.
• Adults average 2-4 colds a year.
• Some viruses and bacteria can live from 20 minutes up to 2 hours or more on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.

According to the CDC's official statement on handwashing, “the most important thing that you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands.”  Many studies indicate the impact of  handwashing on student and staff attendance -- school-wide handwashing programs reduce absenteeism

Let’s fight the flu together!

Your decision to get the flu shot or not goes well beyond you. It also affects the many lives you touch. Influenza is a contagious disease of the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs) that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and the worsening of other chronic health conditions. Flu symptoms may include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches.The best way to protect your family from new influenza strains is to get vaccinated each year. Consult your physician about the flu vaccine. Flu vaccine is available at your physician’s office, local pharmacies, and the The Kings County Health Department. The link listed below shows the schedules for 2017-18 seasonal flu.The list provides the city, date, time, and location where you can get the influenza vaccine.

https://www.countyofkings.com/departments/health-welfare/public-health/nursing/i-p-division/flu

Follow good health guidelines: eat right, exercise, and get plenty of rest to help boost your immunity to fight the effects of colds and flu. Wash hands frequently, do the elbow cough, and disinfect hot spots at school, work, and home. Treat the symptoms if you must, but avoid giving aspirin to children because it may cause a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome.

Enjoy a healthy holiday season!

Somjai Cochran, RN, BSN, PHN

HJUHSD District Nurse

Email: scochran@hjuhsd.k12.ca.us

Tel: 559-583-5902 Ext. 4038

Fax: 559-582-5229

References:

Center for the Disease Control

https://www.makchic.com/stay-healthy-with-7-simple-handwashing-steps/

HJUHSD HOME

Parent Survey 2018

HJUHSD Parents and guardians: Your schools needs your feedback!

Please take a few minutes to complete the online 2018 HJUHSD Climate Survey by November 3. 

We appreciate your honest feedback regarding your experience with Hanford High School, Hanford West High High School, Sierra Pacific High School, Earl F. Johnson High School, and/or Hanford Night Continuation High School.

Our successful partnership in your student’s education depends on clear communication. The survey is anonymous. Names and IP addresses will not be collected, and your responses cannot and will not affect your student.

This annual parent survey helps our schools hear directly from families on a host of issues. This survey is also part of the Western Association of School and Colleges (WASC) school accreditation process as well as assisting HJUHSD in developing the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP).

Thank you for your help! If you have any questions, please contact Bobby Peters, Director of Educational Services, at bpeters@hjuhsd.org or 5559-583-5901, extension 3105.

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California Healthy Kids Survey 2018

HJUHSD students will be invited to take the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS) by the California Department of Education this semester.

 The CHKS is an important tool to help promote better health and well-being students, improve the school learning environment and combat problems such as drug abuse and violence. Students are not required to take the survey: Parents who do not want their child to take the survey must notify their school.

Survey Content
The survey gathers information on developmental supports provided to youth; school connectedness and barriers to learning; school safety; and health-related concerns such as physical activity and nutritional habits; alcohol, tobacco and other drug use; and risk of depression and suicide and perceived sexual orientation. The results from this survey are compiled into district and county-level CHKS Reports. To view a copy of your district’s report, go to http://chks.wested.org/reports/search (Outside Source) and type in the district name.

It is Voluntary 
Students who, with your permission, agree to participate do not have to answer any questions they do not want to answer, and may stop taking the survey at any time.

It is Anonymous 
No names are recorded or attached to the survey forms or data. The results will be made available for analysis only under strict confidentiality controls.

Administration 
The survey will be administered during the fall semester. It will take about one class period to complete (about 50 minutes) and will be administered in your child’s English class.

Potential Risks 
There are no known risks of physical harm to your child. Risks of psychological or social harm are very small. None have been reported in 14 years of survey administration. In rare instances, some discomfort might be experienced from the questions. The school’s counseling services will be available to answer any personal questions that may materialize.

For More Information 
The survey was developed by WestEd, a public, non-profit educational institution.

If you have any questions about this survey, or about your rights, please call or email Bobby Peters, HJUHSD Director of Educational Services, at 559-583-5901, ext. 3105 or bpeters @hjuhsd.k12.org.

If you do not want your child to participate, you may contact your school Testing Secretary.

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CONSENTIMIENTO PARA LA ENCUESTA CALIFORNIA HEALTHY KIDS SURVEY

Le estamos pidiendo a su hijo(a) que participe de la encuesta California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS) que realiza nuestra escuela y que está patrocinada por el Departamento de Educación de California.

Es una encuesta muy importante que ayudará a fomentar una mejor calidad de la salud y el bienestar de nuestros jóvenes, mejorará el ambiente de aprendizaje en la escuela y combatirá problemas como el abuso de drogas y la violencia.

Su hijo(a) no tiene obligación de participar en esta encuesta. La participación es voluntaria y requiere su autorización.

Contenido de la encuesta
La encuesta recopila información sobre la ayuda que se proporciona a los jóvenes durante su desarrollo; el vínculo con la escuela y los obstáculos en el aprendizaje; la seguridad escolar; y los temas que causan preocupación sobre la salud, tales como la actividad física y los hábitos de nutrición; el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y otras drogas y los riesgos de la depresión y el suicidio y la orientación sexual percibida. Los resultados de esta encuesta se recopilan en informes de la encuesta CHKS a nivel del distrito y del condado. Para ver una copia del informe del distrito, visite http://chks.wested.org/reports/search (una fuente externa) y ponga el nombre del distrito.

Es voluntaria
Los estudiantes que estén de acuerdo en participar, con su permiso, no tienen que responder ninguna pregunta que no quieran responder y pueden dejar de participar en cualquier momento.

Es anónima
No se registrará ni se relacionará ningún nombre a los formularios (o formas) ni a los datos de la encuesta. Los resultados estarán disponibles para su análisis sólo bajo estrictos controles de confidencialidad.

Administración 
La encuesta se llevará a cabo al final del semestre de otoño. El tiempo que se necesita para completar la encuesta es aproximadamente un período de clases (alrededor de 50 minutos), y se realizará en la clase de ingles del niño(a).

Riesgos posibles
No se conocen riesgos de daño físico para el niño(a). Los riesgos de que se produzcan daños sociales o psicológicos son muy pocos. En los 14 años en que se viene realizando la encuesta, nunca se reportó ningún caso. En muy pocas ocasiones, los participantes se pudieron haber sentido incómodos por las preguntas. Los servicios de asesoramiento de la escuela estarán disponibles para responder cualquier pregunta personal que pueda surgir.

Para más información
Esta encuesta fue desarrollada por WestEd, una institución educativa pública sin fines de lucro.

Si tiene alguna pregunta con respecto a esta encuesta, o sobre sus derechos, llame al distrito y comuníquese con Bobby Peters, Director de Servicios Educativo, (559) 583-5901, ext. 3105 o al correo electronico bpeters@hjuhsd.org.

 Si no desea que sus hijos participen, puede comunicarse con la Secretaria de prueba as su escuela.

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Nurse's Note: Back to School

Nurse’s Note

Dear Parents and Students,

I’m looking forward to serving and getting to know your students. It is my goal to provide health services and to educate your students with health and wellness information. Healthy children can learn better in a safe and nurturing environment. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns regarding your child’s health. Please provide me with information and documentation, so that I can easily relay information and education to their teachers. I am here to assist your students with any health concerns and to provide a proper health care plan for your child’s health condition. Please utilize me as a resource if you have any questions on where or how your child can receive health care services.

If you have a concern regarding to your child’s hearing or vision, please contact me as I am able to perform a quick hearing or vision screening. I can refer your student to obtain further evaluation. Please know that any information and documentation you provide or any contact I have with your student is confidential.

I wish you and your students a healthy school year. Please contact me with any further questions or concerns.  

Somjai Cochran, RN, PHN/HJUHSD District Nurse

559-583-5902 ext. 4038

Fax: 559-583-5946

Email: scochran@hjuhsd.org

REGARDING MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

All student medication-prescription and non- prescription will require a doctor’s note. Most medications will be stored in the nursing office. With the parent’s permission and with clear doctor’s instruction, students may be given medication by a school employee:

• A new school medication in school form is required each school year. You can pick up the form at the nurse office or download it from the district website.
• If your child needs to have medication kept at school, please have your child’s physician fill out the Medication in School Form.
• Please bring the doctor’s written order and properly labeled medication to your child’s school site.  
• Medication must be delivered to the school in its original container/label. Prescription labels must include the student’s name, doctor’s name, correct medication and dosage, and clear instructions.
• Please let the Health Office Staff know if your child has any health concerns.  We love and care about our students and would like to have a plan of care in place for your child.

***Please remember students can only be allowed to self-carry and self-administer emergency medications (inhaler, glucagon, EpiPen), if the school is provided with Medication in School Form. Failure to properly follow directions or endanger self or others will result in a loss of this privilege***

IMMUNIZATIONS REQUIRED FOR INCOMING FRESHMAN

• Polio: 4 doses (3 doses OK, if one was given on or after the 2nd birthday)
• Dtap: 4 doses (3 doses OK, if last one was given on or after the 2nd birthday. At least one dose must be Tdap Or DTaP/DTP given on or after 7th birthday for all 7th-12 graders).
• MMR: 2 doses
• Hepatitis B: 3 doses
• Varicella: 2 doses for age 13-17 years
• Tdap Booster: 1 dose

RECOMMENDED IMMUNIZATION FOR TEENS

Meningococcal (MCV 4)

• It is a serious illness caused by bacteria that can infect the blood or areas around the brain and spinal cord.  Infection can lead to brain damage, disability, and rapid death
• It is the most common form of meningococcal disease. Common symptoms of meningitis include stiff neck, headache, and high fever
• Meningococcal Vaccines can help prevent meningococcal disease

***College freshman in dorms are at higher risk of catching meningococcal disease***

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

• Is the most common sexually transmitted infection HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives
• HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms
• You also can develop symptoms years after you are infected
• HPV can cause cervical and other cancers, such as oropharyngeal cancer, cancer of genital areas, etc.
• There are vaccines that can stop these health problems from happening

*Check with your healthcare provider about which MCV4 vaccines and HPV vaccines your child needs*

WHY YOUR CHILD NEEDS SHOTS: The California School Immunization Law requires that children be up to date on their immunizations (shots) to attend school. Diseases like measles spread quickly, so children need to be protected before they enter. California schools are required to check immunization records for all new student admissions at Kindergarten or Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade and all students advancing to 7th grade before entry.

THE LAW: Health and Safety Code, Division 105, Part 2, Chapter 1, Sections 120325-120380; California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 8, Sections 6000-6075

WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR ADMISSION: To attend school, your child’s Immunization Record must meet the requirements. If you do not have an Immunization Record, or your child has not received all required shots, call your doctor now for an appointment.

If a licensed physician determines a vaccine should not be given to your child because of medical reasons, submit a written statement from the physician for a medical exemption for the missing shot(s), including the duration of the medical exemption. A personal beliefs exemption is no longer an option for entry into school; however, a valid personal beliefs exemption filed with a school before January 1, 2016 is valid until entry into the next grade span (7th through 12th grade). Valid personal beliefs exemptions may be transferred between schools in California. You must also submit an immunization record for all required shots not exempted. Questions? Visit ShotsForSchool.org or contact your local health department.

IS YOUR STUDENT TOO SICK FOR SCHOOL?

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests these three questions to know whether your child should stay home from school:

• Does your child have a fever?
• Is your child well enough to engage in class?
• Do you think your child has a contagious illness, such as pink eye or the flu?

When should students stay home from school?

• Fevers of 101° F or higher, Diarrhea and Vomiting. These are ways of the body to rid itself of germs, infections and viruses that make the body sick. Wait until children are fever-free before letting them return to school. Keep your child home until symptoms subside and make sure to keep your child well-hydrated. Keep children home when they’ve vomited at least twice in 24 hours. They can return to school when they are symptom free or your doctor says they’re no longer contagious
• Severe cough and cold symptoms could be a sign of a contagious illness like viral bronchitis and whooping cough. Students should stay home.·         
• Sore throats, Pink eye and Rashes. Sore throats can be another symptom of the common cold, or strep throat. If your child has been diagnosed with strep throat or pink eye, keep your child at home for at least 24 hours after starting treatment. Rashes could be a symptom of chickenpox or impetigo, which are contagious. Children should be kept home until diagnosed. They can return when they are symptom free and cleared from a doctor.

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Health News - Summer 2017

Stay safe while you enjoy your summer, stay active, and have fun with your family!

Drowning Facts
According to the CDC, about 10 people die every day from unintentional drowning, 2 being children less than 14 years of age. Visit this site to help inform students and parents of the risks and tips to keep children safe in the water: https://www.cdc.gov/SafeChild/Drowning/index.html

Norovirus
Norovirus was the 2nd leading cause of outbreaks in untreated recreational water, such as lakes, from 1978-2010. It can live in water for several months or possibly even years. Swimming venues that are not treated with chloride can pose a particular risk since there are no chemicals to kill the stomach virus. Swimmers can help protect themselves, their families, and friends from the norovirus by following a few easy and effective steps:

• Keep pee, poop, sweat, and dirt out of the water 
• Don’t swim if you have diarrhea or have been vomiting 
• Shower before you get in the water 
• Don’t swallow lake or pool water 
• Take kids on bathroom breaks 
• Check diapers, and change them in a bathroom or diaper-changing area -- to keep germs away from the water. 

Visit the CDC’s Healthy Swimming Site for more tips: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/

Bicycle-Related Injuries
Bicycle-related injuries and deaths can be prevented by ALWAYS wearing bicycle helmets (which are properly fitted) every time you ride. All bicyclists, regardless of age, can help protect themselves by wearing properly fitted bicycle helmets every time they ride. Learn more about Bicycle Safety from the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/bicycle/index.html

Tick-borne Disease and Illnesses
Tick-borne disease symptoms vary by type of infection and can include fever, fatigue, headache, and rash. Clinicians or families are encouraged to make use of the brochure: “Tick-borne Disease of the U.S.: A Reference Manual for Providers”, published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2013. The manual contains information on tick identification, disease symptoms, lab testing, and recommended treatment. You can download this manual at: https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/resources/tickbornediseases.pdf

If your child needs medication at school, a new school medication form is required each school year. Before school starts in August, please bring the updated medication order and properly labeled medication to your child’s school site or to the walk-thru registration.

If your child has a special diet or health concern, please list these on the emergency cards, so that a health care plan can be created for the new school year.

Questions? 583-8902 ext. 4038 or scochran@hjuhsd.org

Somjai Cochran, 

RN District School Nurse

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Parent Survey 2017

HJUHSD Parents: Your schools need to hear from you!

Please take a few minutes to complete the 2017 HJUHSD Parent Survey for parents/guardians of current students, regarding your experience with Hanford High School, Hanford West High High School, Sierra Pacific High School, Earl F. Johnson High School, and/or Hanford Night Continuation High School.

We appreciate your honest feedback: Our successful partnership in your student’s education depends on clear communication. The survey is anonymous. Names and IP addresses will not be collected, and your responses cannot and will not affect your student.

Click here to take the 2017 HJUHSD Parent Survey now

The annual Parent Survey is a tool to help our schools hear directly from families on a host of issues. This survey is also part of the Western Association of School and Colleges (WASC) school accreditation process as well as assisting HJUHSD in developing the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP).

Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions, please contact Bobby Peters, Director of Educational Services, at bpeters@hjuhsd.org or 5559-583-5901, extension 3105.

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Wellness Survey

The Hanford Joint Union High School District is currently revising the HJUHSD Local School Wellness Policy to include specific and measurable goals for nutrition education and promotion, nutrition guidelines and standards, physical education and activity, and school climate and resources. 

Students, parents, staff and community members are invited to help the District assess goals by completing a short survey. Answers are anonymous. The survey will remain open until March 29. Thank you for your input!

Take the HJUHSD Wellness Survey

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Measure W Facilities Survey Results: Thank you!

In October, we asked parents, staff and community members to rank their highest priorities for school facility improvements.

 I would like to thank everyone who took the time to share your opinions about improving the condition of our high school facilities through Measure W. The results of the survey are below. 

Our highest priority is to ensure the academic success of our students, and community input is essential as we plan for the next phase of school facility improvements.

Thank you again for your input,

William Fishbough
Superintendent

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Safety update

UPDATE: 3:30 p.m. Oct 20, 2016

The Hanford Police Department announced earlier today that they have made a second arrest in connection with local "creepy clown" social media posts that have implied potential violence at or around local schools. I would like to assure our parents and students that, while we do not believe these posts present a credible threat to student safety, we take them very seriously and we will continue to work with local law enforcement and to be vigilant in our protection of students.

As I stated yesterday, making terrorist threats against any school or student is punishable by expulsion and prosecution, even if those threats are "anonymous" or a social media "prank". As has been demonstrated by these arrests, online posts are not as "anonymous" as some people think and I would like to thank the Hanford Police Department, including our School Resource Officers, for their quick actions in this case.

I would also like to thank all of the students, parents and other community members who have been quick to report to police any threats that could indicate a danger to our schools or community. And a special thanks, as well, to all of our teachers and school staff for their professionalism and dedication to the safety and well being of our students during this time and always.

William Fishbough
Superintendent
Hanford Joint Union High School District

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UPDATE:  2:45 p.m. Oct. 18, 2016

The Hanford Police Department issued a statement this afternoon that they have arrested a juvenile for the "creepy clown" social media threat against local schools.

Thank you to our students, staff, parents, community members and partners in law enforcement who work every day to ensure students are safe at our schools and in our communities.

William Fishbough
Superintendent
Hanford Joint Union High School District


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The Hanford Police Department and Hanford schools were made aware of a "creepy clown" threat to local schools posted on social media last night. We do not believe this to be a credible threat to student safety, but we take all threats seriously and we are working with the Hanford Police Department to investigate and address the issue and ensure the safety of all students and staff, including increased law enforcement presence on our campuses this week as a precautionary measure. Classes and activities will continue as normal.

"Clown threats" have popped up all over the country this month as people have been dressing up as clowns in public places in apparent attempts to scare people. Police have found most of these incidents to be "just pranks" but, again, we will continue to take every reasonable precaution to ensure student safety.

While we are hopeful that these local "creepy clown" posts were not created by HJUHSD students, we also want to remind students and families that making social media posts that threaten any school or student is considered a terrorist threat, which is punishable by law and could result in expulsion.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our students and schools.

William Fishbough
Superintendent
Hanford Joint Union High School District

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