Austin ISD will conduct the following health screenings using certified screeners in accordance with guidance from the Texas Department of State Health Services and as required by Board Policy FFAA.
Vision and Hearing
Austin ISD conducts screenings for all students in Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades as well as for students who are new to Austin ISD.
Spinal Screenings
Scoliosis is a common spinal curvature abnormality found in adolescents. It is usually detected in children between 10 and 14 years of age.
Austin ISD conducts spinal screenings in compliance with Health and Safety Code, Chapter 37, all children shall undergo screening for abnormal spinal curvature in accordance with the following schedule:
- Girls will be screened two times, once at age 10 (or fall semester of grade 5) and again at age 12 (or fall semester of grade 7).
- Boys will be screened one time at age 13 or 14 (or fall semester of grade 8).
- Texas Department of State Health Services Requirements
- Spinal Screening Requirements
Acanthosis Nigricans (AN)
AN screening is required for all students in 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th grades. AN is a light brown to black velvety, rough or thickened area on the surface of the skin usually found around the neck.
AN can signal high insulin levels, which can lead to insulin resistance and then to Type 2 diabetes. This screening typically takes place during the second semester of the school year.
The Texas Risk Assessment for Type 2 Diabetes in Children is a legislatively mandated program developed, coordinated, and administered by The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Border Health Office (BHO). The program assesses children who may be at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
If a parent wishes to decline any of the state-mandated health screenings, a letter is required stating that they are declining school-based screening and that the required screening will be performed by a qualified professional outside of school. The screening results must be provided to the school nurse.
Results
If your child does not pass one of the required screenings at school, you will be notified in writing by the school nurse and offered assistance with low-cost medical resources as needed.
Please follow-up with the appropriate medical professional and provide a written report from them to the school.