Animals as Part of the Instructional Program

POLICY
Requests to include animals in the instructional program of the classroom or school shall be approved by the principal. Health issues (allergies, vaccinated status of the animal) involving students and staff shall be addressed before permission is given to allow the animal in the school. If the instructional program involving the animal is ongoing and the animal will remain at school when school is not in session, appropriate arrangements for the animal’s care must be made. Animals shall not be transported in a school vehicle. Animals that are part of the instructional program shall be under the control of their adult-owner, the teacher or designated students at all times.

Procedure
Prior to granting or denying requests to include animals in the school’s instructional program the principal shall evaluate the following issues:

• There is an educational benefit to be gained by the inclusion of the animal in the instructional program.
• There is an appropriate plan for the control of the animal, especially for wild or poisonous animals.
• Any health concerns involving students, staff or other animals have been thoroughly addressed, for instance allergies, the vaccination status of the animal, if relevant, or the transmission of disease from the animal.
• The animal’s health, safety and well-being have been appropriately evaluated.
• Sanitary issues have been addressed, the treatment of animal wastes and personal hygiene of students or staff in contact with the animals.

Adoption Date:  First Reading 4.23, Adopted 5.23