Letter: Parent of student at Fall River school expresses concern over head lice

This is a submitted letter to the editor and was not written by Fall River Reporter.

“My name is Taylor Perry, and I am writing to you today with a serious concern regarding the FRPS’s head lice policy. My daughter is a student at FRPS, and I recently discovered that the school’s handling of a head lice situation was, in my opinion, inadequate. While a head lice check was performed on my daughter, I received no notification from the school nurse. My attempts to clarify the situation with her teacher proved unproductive.

“Further investigation into the school’s policy revealed a procedure that permits students with live head lice to remain in class, citing CDC recommendations and a lack of Massachusetts state law mandating exclusion. This is concerning, given that numerous other organizations, including the YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, US Taekwondo schools, and school districts in Somerset, Swansea, Fairhaven, Falmouth, Dartmouth, Springfield, Marlborough, and others, maintain stricter “no lice” policies.

“I have collected over 600 signatures from parents and students who share my concerns. We believe this lenient approach to head lice poses a significant health risk to the student body. To address this issue, we are organizing a meeting with the full committee on Monday, June 9th, at 5:30 PM at Durfee High School. I am writing to you today to raise awareness of this critical matter and to encourage your participation in this important discussion. Your support in advocating for a revised head lice policy that prioritizes the health and well-being of all students would be greatly appreciated.”