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ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS

A.                 Permission must be obtained from the Principal before animals are brought to school by anyone.  If students need to bring animals to school for educational purposes, they must consult with their teacher(s) who, in turn, will request permission from the Principal.  Animals may not be transported in school vehicles.

B.                 No animals will be allowed in school unless proof of current rabies vaccination (if appropriate) is provided to the building principal.

C.                 No wild animals will be allowed in school unless under the control of an individual trained in the care and management of the animal and properly licensed by state or federal agencies as appropriate (i.e., zookeepers, veterinarians, biologists).  Students should not be permitted to handle wild animals.

D.                 All animals brought to school must be restrained by the owner/handler.  The teacher is responsible for the proper supervision and control of students whenever there is an exhibit or activity involving animals in school.

E.                  If a student is bitten/injured by an animal on school premises, the Principal/designee, school nurse/physician, and parent/guardian must be notified as soon as possible.  If a staff member or visitor is bitten/injured, the Principal/designee must be notified.  The Principal/designee must notify appropriate public health authorities and the Maine Department of Human Services, Bureau of Health, of each incident.

F.                  If a stray or wild animal appears on school grounds, children shall not be allowed in the area until the animal has left the premises or is removed by the local animal control officer, game warden, or other appropriate official.

G.                 Animals kept in classrooms must be housed in appropriate containers and cared for in a safe and humane manner.  Only the teacher or students designated by the teacher are to handle these animals.  If animals are to be kept in the classroom on days when classes are not in session, arrangements must be made for their adequate care at all times.

H.        No mammal/animal may be used as part of a scientific experiment or for any other purpose where the normal health of the animal is interfered with or where pain or distress is caused.  No person may practice vivisection or exhibit a vivisected animal in the schools.  Dissection of dead animals shall be confined to the classroom and to the presence of students engaged in the study of dissection and shall not be for the purpose of exhibition. 

I.                    School/Classroom pets will not be allowed, excluding fish tanks.

J.                   The use of service animals will be allowed as provided for in Federal and/or State statute and regulations.  Procedures for the approved use of service animals will be developed by the Superintendent.

 Adopted:          3/9/98