Dear D-Y Families,

We know that deciding whether to send your child to school or keep them home can sometimes be difficult. While regular attendance is essential for learning and success, students who are truly ill need time at home to rest and recover—both for their own well-being and to prevent spreading illness to others.

Please use the following guidelines when making your decision:

Keep your child home if:

• They have a fever over 100.4°F – may return once fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
  

• They have vomited or had diarrhea – may return after being symptom-free for 24 hours.
  

• They’ve been diagnosed with strep throat – may return after 24 hours of antibiotics and no fever.
  

• They’ve been diagnosed with pertussis (whooping cough) – may return after 5 days of antibiotic treatment.
  

• They have a rash that is unexplained or possibly contagious—return only with a healthcare provider’s clearance.
  

Send your child to school if:

• They have mild symptoms such as a runny nose, minor cough, or mild stomach ache.
  

• They have not had a fever overnight and have not needed fever-reducing medication.
  

• They are feeling well enough to participate in school activities.
  

Seek medical care if:

• Your child has a fever with additional symptoms such as ear pain, sore throat, rash, or persistent cough.
  

• They show signs of dehydration, severe stomach pain, difficulty breathing, or a concerning rash or eye symptoms.
  

Remember:

• Even starting in preschool, missing just 2 days a month can cause children to fall behind.
  

• Being on time and attending school regularly builds strong habits for lifelong success.