When Should My Child Stay Home?

At Vestavia Hills City Schools, we know that consistent attendance supports student success. We also know there are times when staying home is the best way to support your child's recovery and protect the health of our school community.

In general, students should remain at home if they have:

• A fever of 100°F or higher (students should be fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning to school)
• Vomited within the past 12 hours
• Unexplained diarrhea
• Untreated conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• An injury or illness that requires close medical monitoring
• Medication side effects requiring supervision or monitoring
• Untreated head lice

Some contagious illnesses, such as strep throat and influenza, may have specific return-to-school guidelines. Your healthcare provider or school nurse can help determine when it is safe for your child to return.

Our Health Services team partners with families to support student wellness while keeping learning on track. If you have questions, please contact your school nurse or healthcare provider.