💊 Medications at School

The California Education Code states that any student who is required to take medication or receive a health-related procedure prescribed by a physician during the regular school day may be assisted by the school nurse or other designated school personnel if the district receives:

1. A written statement from the physician detailing the method, amount and time schedules that the medication or procedure is to be administered, and
2. A written statement from the student’s parent or guardian authorizing the school district to administer the medication or procedure. (California Education Code §§ 49422, 49423)

🚫 Medication Guidelines

• All medications must be delivered to the school in the original container. Prescription medications must also be in the original pharmacy container with the prescription label adhered.
• Students may carry and self-administer prescription auto-injectable epinephrine and asthma inhalers if requirements are met.
• No other medications—including over-the-counter meds, vitamins, herbs, or alternative remedies—may be carried by students unless approved by the school nurse.
• Limited over-the-counter medications may be available at school and can be given only by a credentialed nurse or trained health technician with parental consent.

Parents/guardians requesting medication administration or procedures at school must understand school staff may contact the prescribing health professional if clarification is needed about dosage, scheduling, side effects, or indications.

Contact the school nurse if you have questions. Forms are available below and at your child’s school.

🏠 Medications at Home

The parent/guardian of a student on a continuing medication regimen at home is required to inform the school nurse or designated certificated school employee of:

• The medication being taken
• The current dosage
• The name of the supervising physician

This information is collected annually on the Health Information Exchange form at the start of the school year. Updates are required when new medications begin.

📄 Medication Forms

Contact your child's school nurse for guidance or help completing the required forms.