Health Services

At Tuba City Boarding School, we prioritize our students' health, safety, and well-being. We strive to ensure that all members of our school community — including day and residential students, parents, guardians and staff — are informed and supported in accessing health services.

Illness Policy

Students should stay home if they are not well to prevent the spread of illness within the school. If a student becomes ill while at school and cannot continue attending classes, the parent or guardian will be contacted to arrange for prompt pick-up.

Medication Administration

We prefer that all medications, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, be administered at home. However, if it is necessary to administer medication during school hours, the following guidelines apply:

1. Parent/Guardian Responsibility: Parents or guardians must deliver all medications in their original containers to the school administrator or a designated staff member. Before any medication is administered, an Authorization to Administer Prescribed/Over-the-Counter Medication form must be completed and submitted.
2. Prohibited Practices: Students should not bring medication to school themselves. Possession of medication without proper documentation may result in disciplinary action.
3. Self-Administration Exceptions: Students may self-carry and self-administer certain medications such as inhalers or EpiPens, but only with physician certification and the completion of an Individualized Health Plan approved by the school and the parent/guardian.

Medical Emergencies

In the event of a medical emergency, the school will transport the student immediately to the nearest health facility or hospital. Parents or guardians will be notified as soon as possible. A staff member will remain with the student until the parent or guardian arrives. Parents and guardians should ensure their contact information is always up to date.

Preventive and Basic Health Services

In partnership with Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation, we offer basic health services, including dental, vision and hearing screenings, as well as flu shots. Parental permission is required for all services.

Infectious Disease Control Policy

To mitigate the spread of communicable diseases, Tuba City Boarding School follows guidelines developed by the Indian Health Service (IHS).

1. Immediate Actions: If a student is suspected of having a communicable disease, staff will:
   1. Notify the principal or designee immediately.
   2. Arrange for the student to be evaluated at the nearest hospital or health facility.
   3. Inform the parent or guardian promptly.
2. Isolation Protocols:
   1. If necessary, the student will be placed in an isolation room in the dormitory or another designated area and monitored by staff.
   2. Measures, including quarantining parts of the school or dormitory, will be taken to control disease transmission.
3. Parent Notification: If their child has been exposed to a communicable disease, families will receive written notification. This communication will include details about the disease, symptoms to monitor, prevention measures and school response protocols.

Re-Admittance: Students must provide a doctor’s note certifying they are medically cleared before returning to school. Additionally, the school may require a meeting with the parent or guardian to discuss the next steps.

Residential Health Care Services

For boarding students, Tuba City Boarding School takes a holistic approach to physical, emotional and mental health. Residential staff are trained annually to maintain a safe and healthy living environment.

Medication Management

• All medications are delivered to home living staff upon a student’s arrival.
• Medications are securely stored in a locked medication room.
• Administration details — including date, student name, diagnosis, medication name, dosage and time of administration — are recorded in a medication log.
• Residential staff document and oversee all medication administration.

Health Partnerships

The residential program works closely with Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation to provide medical services to students when needed.

Continuity of Learning During Health-related absences

In cases of extended absences due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, Tuba City Boarding School supports students by providing access to technology, learning materials and connectivity. Families and the school collaborate to ensure educational continuity on a case-by-case basis.