School Policy for HIV/AIDS

Importance of School Policy Rationale: A sound HIV policy will provide the following: b guidance to educators b reassurance to families, students, and staff b legal protection for schools b support for people with HIV and AIDS

Elements of School Policy Legal context for policy development and revision includes: b Americans with Disabilities Act b Individuals with Disabilities Education Act b Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974

School Policy and Attendance b Students with HIV have the right to attend school. b Educational placement of HIV infected students must be made on a case-by-case basis. b A respectful school climate should be maintained. b Verbal or physical harassment must not be allowed.

School Policy and Employment b School districts should not discriminate on the basis of HIV. b Employees can continue to work as long as they can perform their duties. b Reasonable accommodations should be provided.

School Policy and Privacy b Students and employees disclosure of HIV/AIDS status is not required. b Confidentiality must be maintained.

School Policy and Curriculum b Age appropriate prevention education should be provided in grades K-12. Related Services b Provide access to voluntary information, and confidential,age and developmentally appropriate counseling about matters related to HIV infection.

School Policy and Infection Control b Infection control guidelines should be established and enforced. b Schools should promote Coordinated School Health Programs. b HIV prevention education is needed to promote healthful living and discourage behaviors that put people at risk for acquiring HIV.

School Policy and Staff Development: All school employees should participate in staff development components including: b factual and current information. b infection control procedures. b school policy related to HIV and AIDS. b parent and community relations. b annual reviews.

School Policy Resources: b National Association of State Boards of Education 1012 Cameron Street 1012 Cameron Street Alexandria, Virginia Alexandria, Virginia Phone (703) Phone (703) b CDC AIDS Hotline AIDS b Louisiana AIDS Hotline AIDS Hotline OSHA OSHA HIV Education HIV Education