Regulation 5500-4

Student Welfare

Animals in School

Reviewed and affirmed by the Board:  6/28/2022
Last Revision: 
Original publish date: 05/25/2010
Related policies & regulations:  
Legal references:  

 

On rare occasions and after receiving administrative approval, staff may bring to and/or house in school animals as learning aids to facilitate the achievement of curriculum objectives.

 

Consideration for administrative approval include:

• How the presence of the animal is connected to the curriculum;
• The impact the presence of the animal has on student learning; and
• Whether the animal presents a risk to student safety, allergic reactions or contagion.

The following guidelines shall be followed with all animals in school:

1. Animals kept at school as elements of a particular curriculum will also follow any additional guidelines as identified by the curriculum specialist (e.g., Animals in science classrooms).
2. Verification of up-to-date vaccinations shall be presented to the building administrator prior to the approval of the visit of a cat or dog.
3. Other animals and creatures shall be confined in suitable cages or containers;
4. Students shall not handle animals that may expose them to disease, risk of injury or being bitten (e.g., squirrels, bats, owls and monkeys);
5. Animals and creatures shall receive adequate care, food, water and living conditions to remain healthy.
6. Cages shall be cleansed regularly, including the removal of surplus food, excreta and soiled bedding.
7. The nurse or health technician shall be informed in any case of animal bite or health-related concerns.

Animals brought to school as Pet Therapy animals will follow the “Pet Therapy Guidelines.”

 

Service animals are permitted in accordance with Policy 3972.

 

For the safety and wellbeing of students, parents, community members and staff, pets/personal companion animals are not allowed to be brought on school grounds with students present except in accordance with this regulation.