Families want their children in school, healthy and ready to learn.
Regular attendance helps students build relationships. It helps them stay engaged in learning and connected to school.
When a student is sick, staying home helps them recover. It also helps protect others from getting sick.
Many families ask: How sick is too sick for school?
Highline’s Too Sick for School? guide can help families decide when a student should stay home and recover.
Students should stay home if they have:
- A fever of 100°F or higher
- Vomited two or more times within the past 24 hours
- Three or more episodes of diarrhea within the past 24 hours
- A rash with itching, fever or swelling
- A sore throat with a fever or swollen glands
- An eye infection with itching or drainage
- A healthcare provider’s recommendation to stay home or a hospitalization
If you’re unsure, consider two questions:
- Can my child participate in school activities without spreading illness to others?
- Will my child be able to focus and learn effectively today?
If your child will be absent, please contact your school as soon as possible. If you have questions about your child’s health or whether they are ready to return to school, review Highline’s Too Sick for School? guide or contact your school nurse or healthcare provider.