The commissioner of education must develop coordinated school health guidelines and include specified components; parents keep the same exemption right for their child.
The commissioner of education, in consultation with the department of health and in accordance with its duties under title 68, chapter 1, part 12, shall develop guidelines based on the federal centers for disease control and prevention model for the implementation of a coordinated school health program. It is the intent that these guidelines serve as a model for LEAs in addressing the health needs of their students and improving student opportunities for academic achievement. Components of a coordinated school health program shall include, but not be limited to, health services, health education, school nutrition services, physical education, healthy school environment, school counseling, school psychological and social services, staff health and wellness, and family and community involvement to enhance student health. In formulating this program, the commissioner shall consider existing local school/local health departments and community collaborations to promote and support student health and wellness, as well as other state and local programs and initiatives in this area. In developing the guidelines and standards, the following components must be included, notwithstanding the fact that the centers for disease control model for the implementation of a coordinated school health program contains such requirements: [Former] Section 49-6-1005(a) and the family life curriculum contained in chapter 6, part 13 of this title shall continue to be observed; A parent shall have the same right to exempt that parent's child from participation as provided for in [former] §§ 49-6-1005(a) and 49-6-1303; and To the extent permitted by state or federal law, any aspect of family planning or contraception shall be governed by § 68-1-1205 and the policies set by the local boards of education.