Health Screening

Vision, Hearing, Acanthosis Nigricans and Scoliosis Screenings

The State of Texas requires that school districts provide certain health screenings for students throughout the school year. 

Vision and Hearing

Vision and hearing screening is performed for all students in Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th grades, as well as any student who is new to LTISD. Screening for students who are new to the district will take place during the first semester of the school year.

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.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a common spinal curvature abnormality found in adolescents.  It is usually detected in children between 10 and 14 years of age.  

Spinal screening for scoliosis is required for girls two times, once at age 10 (or fall semester of grade 5) and again at age 12 (or fall semester of grade 7). It is required for boys one time at age 13 or 14 (or fall semester grade 8).

If a parent wishes to decline spinal screening for religious reasons, a letter is required stating that they are declining school-based screening for religious reasons and that the spinal screening will be performed by a qualified professional outside of school.

Results

If your child does not pass one of the required screenings at school, you will be notified in writing by the school nurse. Please follow-up with the appropriate medical professional and provide a written report from them to the school.