Screening Requirements

Screenings are designed to detect unrecognized conditions as early as possible so as to not hinder scholastic performance. A vision screening for acuity and muscle balance (stereopsis) is required by the physician prior to kindergarten entry. Massachusetts Department of Public Health regulations require schools to conduct vision and hearing screenings annually as well as recording the height and weight of each enrolled child. Dental screenings are recommended at school entry and in 3rd grade and a mobile dental clinic offers screenings each year in school. Parents are notified in any case where follow-up with a dentist or other health professional is recommended. 

Parents should notify their school nurse at the beginning of each school year if they do not want their child to participate in any of the identified health related screenings. As a final note, the screenings done at school are simple screenings and are not meant to replace routine or diagnostic procedures and testing done by your family physician. 

See the full list of screenings and what grades that they are performed below.