The opening of school is one of the most important events for parents, teachers, administrators and physicians. If handled in a competent manner, the pediatrician, as a school medical advisor, will establish useful contacts with school administrators that may last for the rest of the school year. It is particularly important during the middle of August and the beginning of September to establish a presence in order to initiate programs.
Several areas require immediate action.
This is the first action that should be supervised by the school medical advisor. Administrative regulations should be established as to when examinations are acceptable and immunizations that are required for school. Communication should be between the school nurse, the parents, the school medical advisor, and practicing pediatricians. This may be communicated during the spring and summer by articles in the local newspaper. Generally, in kindergarten, examinations are required at the opening of school.