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Health Screenings

  • Vision, Hearing, Acanthosis Nigricans and Scoliosis Screenings

    The State of Texas requires that school districts provide certain health screenings for students throughout the school year.

    Vision and Hearing

    Vision and hearing screening is performed for all students in 3rd and 5th grades, as well as any student who is new to WISD. This screening will take place during the first semester of the school year.

    Acanthosis Nigricans (AN)

    AN screening is required for all students in 3rd and 5th grades.  Acanthosis Nigricans is a light brown to black, velvety, rough or thickened area on the surface of the skin usually found around the neck, and can signal high insulin levels, which can lead to insulin resistance and then to Type 2 diabetes. Students who are positively identified with the marker undergo additional assessments of body mass index (BMI), BMI percentile, and blood pressure. Referrals are issued to the parents of these children, alerting each parent of their child's risk factors and encouraging further evaluation from a health professional. 

    Scoliosis

    Spinal screening for scoliosis is required for all female 5th grade students.  Scoliosis is a common spinal curvature abnormality found in adolescents.  It is usually detected in children between 10 and 14 years of age.  Spinal screenings will take place during the first semester of the school year.

    Click here to learn more about these requirements. 

    A student may be exempted from the mandated Vision, Hearing, or Spinal Screening if the parent/guardian submits an affidavit of exemption to the school nurse prior to the screening at the campus. The professional examination must be properly conducted during the grade year in which the screening is required and submitted to the school nurse by January 30 of the current year. The professional examination must be properly conducted during the grade year in which the screening is required. The TX UIL Preparticipation Physical Evaluation-Medical History Form meets this requirement. The documentation must be signed and dated by a licensed professional.

    If your child does not pass one of the required screenings at school, you will be notified in writing by the school nurse. Please follow-up with the appropriate medical professional and provide a written report from them to the school.