ANIMALS IN SCHOOL





In general, the presence of animals in the schools is discouraged. Only when there is a direct connection to the curriculum should animals be permitted. Conditions under which animals will be allowed will follow guidelines established in conjunction with the Guilford Public Schools Medical Advisor:

Parents/guardians will request permission of the principal for an animal to be brought into
the classroom or onto school grounds.

Parents/guardians will be notified by the teacher, prior to the animal being brought into
the classroom.

Accommodations will be made for students and staff who are allergic to animals.
To avoid potential salmonella infection, only small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs in cages, or baby chicks kept in cages, or reptiles kept in glass cages with ìno touching allowedî will be permitted.
Working guide dogs will be allowed per State and Federal guidelines. Their presence must not interfere with the orderly operations of the building.

The following animals will not be allowed in school buildings, but will be allowed on school grounds with appropriate supervision: farm animals, dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle and sheep.

Proper evidence of rabies immunization must be provided for any animal brought onto school grounds or into buildings when state regulations require such immunization for the class of animals.

All students and staff must wash their hands before and after contact with any animal.