7305 Animals in the Classroom
Teaching and Learning/Classrooms
The use of live animals integrated into a classroom experience to support the curriculum is an appropriate resource for student learning and may be part of an ongoing project. Administrators and teachers need to review the health needs of students with the school nurse teachers prior to incorporating any animal into a classroom program. Children can benefit from the exposure to animals conducted with common animal husbandry practices.
The building level administrator will be responsible for the final determination about the utilization of animals in the classroom based on the following:
1. Animals may be housed in a classroom for the length of the unit or theme that they are being utilized and maintained by the staff member hosting the animal.
2. The utilization of animals in the class will be reviewed with the administrator and school nurse teacher to avoid any conflict with student allergies, such as asthmatic conditions and related reactions to fur, feathers, and dander. The Administrator and staff will consult with the Director of Maintenance on any HVAC implications to address potential allergic reactions in adjoining classrooms.
3. Animals used in classrooms may include small mammals and/or reptiles. No tropical, exotic and wild birds will be allowed in classrooms for any duration beyond one school day.
4. All animals will be removed from classrooms for all school vacation periods.
5. Exceptions may be considered for ecological system displays and fish tanks or classroom pets, provided they are installed following maintenance guidelines.
6. All animals will be housed appropriately with regard for the daily cleaning procedures by custodial staff. There will be daily maintenance and cleaning of animal housing units by the person hosting the animal.
7. The number of animals incorporated into a classroom program will be determined by the space limitations, criteria above and the space available in the classroom. The final determination of the number of animals will be established by the principal.
8. This policy will be distributed yearly to all staff and included in staff handbooks.
Date of first reading: 3/26/02
Date adopted: 4/09/02