5141.231/4118.231 5141.231/4118.231Students/Personnel - Certified
Psychotropic Drug Use
The Board of Education prohibits all school personnel from recommending the use of psychotropic drugs for any student enrolled within the school system. For purposes of this policy, the term "recommend" shall mean to directly or indirectly suggest that a child use psychotropic drugs.
Psychotropic drugs are defined as prescription medications for behavioral or social-emotional concerns, such as attentional deficits, impulsivity, anxiety, depression and thought disorders and includes, but is not limited to stimulant medications and anti-depressants.
However, school health or mental health personnel, including school nurses or nurse practitioners, the District’s Medical Advisor, school psychologists, school social workers, and school counselors (note: The Board may also include other school personnel it has identified as the person responsible for communication with a parent or guardian about a child’s need for medical evaluation, such as the district’s director of special services/special education.) may recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner.
The District shall follow procedures for identification, evaluation, placement and delivery of services to children with disabilities or suspected disabilities provided in state and federal statutes that govern special education.
The Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee shall promulgate this policy to district staff and parents/guardians of students annually and upon the registration of new students.
(cf. 5141.4 - Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect)
Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes
10-212b Policies prohibiting the recommendation of psychotropic drugs by school personnel. (as amended by PA 03-211)
46b-120. Definitions
10-76a Definitions. (as amended by PA 00-48)
10-76b State supervision of special education programs and services.
10-76d Duties and powers of boards of education to provide special education programs and services. (as amended by PA 97-114 and PA 00-48)
10-76h Special education hearing and review procedure. Mediation of disputes. (as amended by PA 00-48)
State Board of Education Regulations.
34 C.F.R. 3000 Assistance to States for Education for Handicapped Children.
American with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. §12101 et seq.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. §1400 et seq.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, 29 U.S.C. § 794.
Policy adopted: