• Head Lice: These are tiny, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. They are about the size of a sesame seed and can be pale gray or tan. Lice cannot jump or fly. They are spread mainly through close head-to-head contact.

• Nits: Nits are lice eggs. They are very small, oval-shaped, and usually yellow or white. Nits are firmly attached to the hair near the scalp, often within ¼ inch of the skin, and are difficult to remove. They are often mistaken for dandruff but do not brush off easily.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For:

Children may not always show symptoms in the early stages of an infestation. However, the most common sign is itching of the scalp, particularly behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. Other symptoms may include:

• A tickling sensation or feeling of something moving in the hair

• Irritability and difficulty sleeping

• Sores on the scalp from scratching, which may become infected if not treated

Please remember: Head lice is not a reflection of cleanliness or hygiene. Anyone can get them.

• Lice are mainly spread through direct head-to-head contact.
• Lice can also spread through shared personal items such as hats, combs, and brushes.
• Adult lice can survive for about 30 days on a person’s head but will die within two days if they fall off and cannot feed.

• Check regularly: Examine your child’s scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. A fine-toothed comb can help detect lice and nits. Nits are typically found within ¼ inch of the scalp.
  
• Contact the school nurse if you suspect head lice. We are here to provide guidance on how to check for and treat infestations.
  
• Treat promptly: If lice or nits are found, begin treatment right away to prevent spreading to others.
  
• Stay in touch: Let the school nurse know if your child has been diagnosed with head lice. This helps us take appropriate steps to protect the school community while maintaining your child’s privacy.

• Our district has a no live lice policy. Students with live lice will be sent home for treatment.
  
• Return to school: Students must be brought to school by a parent or guardian to be examined by the school nurse before being readmitted. This ensures that treatment has been administered and no live lice are present.
• If, after the return examination, live lice are still present, the child will need to be taken home for further treatment.
  
• Nits only: Students with nits only are not excluded from school.

• Head Lice 101
• District Lice Policy
• Elementary School Handbook Lice Policy 24-25