Littleton

Public

Schools

Regulation

 

Policy Code    IMG-R

Policy Name    Animals in Schools and District Facilities

                                 March 13, 2003

                                

 

Live Animals in the Classroom

Live animals may be used for instructional purposes in the classroom where appropriate as stated in Board Policy IMG. Prior to authorizing presence of an animal in the school or District facility, the site administrator will ensure:

1.      A specific and appropriate educational purpose.

2.      Effective protection of staff and students. The health effects from exposure to pet allergens, including triggering and/or aggravating asthmatic symptoms and allergic reactions, must be considered before bringing an animal into the classroom or District facility.

3.      Provision of documentation that the animal is in good physical condition and vaccinated against transmittable diseases prior to the animal entering the school or District site.

4.      The teacher is responsible for the proper control of animals brought into the classroom or District facility for instructional purposes, including the effective protection of students. This includes keeping the animals in appropriate cages or containers. No animal will be allowed free range in any part of the school and/or school grounds.

5.      When school is not in session, it is the responsibility of the site administrator to ensure animals left at the site have proper care. A copy of the “Animals in School” notification form (exhibit IMG-E) should be on file at the site, with a copy provided to facilities.

The site administrator and parent/guardian must be notified immediately if an animal bites an individual or any incident occurs which could have an adverse effect on physical or emotional health.

Animals are not to be transported using District transportation unless provided under policy JLIF.

When an uncontrolled dog or other animal is discovered on school or District property, the site administrator should call animal control.

Service animals are used to assist some individuals with disabilities. The use of service animals is protected by law and is not covered by the rules set forth in this policy.

 

Cross Reference:   JLIF, Assistance Dogs in District Programs

                             IMG, Animals in Schools and District Facilities