Schools are required by Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 57 and 105 CMR 200.000) to perform health screenings that include vision, hearing, body mass index (BMI), scoliosis, and Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). Parents/guardians will be notified before the screenings and allowed to opt their child out of screenings.

Students entering Kindergarten are required by Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 71 and Section 57, to have had a vision screening by a physician. 

Vision

Annually in grades 1 through 5, once in grades 6 through 8, and grade 9

Hearing

Kindergarten through grade 3, once in grades 6 through 8 and grade 9

Growth Exam

Heights and weights are measured and body mass index (BMI) is calculated on children in grades 1, 4, 7, and 10.  Measurements are done in a way that is objective and confidential.

Scoliosis (Postural)

The state of Massachusetts mandates that all students in grades 5 through 9 be screened for scoliosis.

SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment)

SBIRT in Schools is a proactive approach to having conversations about substance use. The screening uses the CRAFFT tool recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Substance Abuse. 

• Student screening sessions will be brief and conducted confidentially in a private, one-on-one session

• A prevention strategy for youth not currently using substances

• An early intervention approach for youth who report substance use and connect youth to supportive resources and services

• A Massachusetts requirement since 2016

SBIRT in Schools

Parents/guardians will be notified of an abnormal hearing or vision screening. Please have your child evaluated, as soon as possible, and return the referral form to your school nurse.