We would like to inform you of a recent change in the regulation for BMI (Body Mass Index) screening performed by each school nurse. We will no longer send home BMI letters from the school. This recommended change by the MA Department of Public Health, (105 CMR 500.200), was made in order to provide increased confidentiality of personal health information and to prevent any unintended consequences.
The requirement to collect students' height, weight, and to calculate BMI measurements in the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th grades will continue. This information will also be reported to the MA Department of Public Health per the law.
Please remember, parents may opt out of this screening for their child by submitting a request in writing. This request must be given to the school nurse at the beginning of each school year.
Parents will still be able to request BMI information from their school nurse.
Information regarding healthy lifestyle habits, fitness, and nutrition will always remain available from the school nurses.
Please don't hesitate to contact your school nurse if you have questions or concerns regarding this new change in the policy. Thank you.
Martha's Vineyard School Nurses
Janice Brown- Chilmark nurse 508-645-2562 x203
Nicole Barlett -Edgartown nurse 508-627-1420
Catherine Coogan -Tisbury nurse 508-696-6522
Kristine Cammorata – West Tisbury nurse 508-696-7738 x407
Linda Leonard-High School nurse 508-693-1033 x116
Lana Schaefer- Oak Bluffs nurse 508-696-8224 x281