Last modified: January 5, 2024

4029 P1 Animals as Part of the Instructional Program

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General Expectations

Requests to include animals in the instructional program of the classroom or school will be approved by the principal who will ensure compliance with established procedures. Health issues (allergies, vaccinated status of the animal) involving students and staff will be addressed before permission is given to allow the animal in the school.

If the instructional program involving the animal is ongoing and the animal would remain at school when school is not in session, appropriate arrangements for the animal’s care must be made.

Animals will not be transported in a school vehicle.

Animals that are part of the instructional program will be under the control of their adult- owner, the teacher or designated students at all times.

Risk of Diseases from Animals

Rabies is a growing problem and any fur-bearing animal is susceptible to this very serious fatal disease. Infected animals can transmit this disease to students and staff. The following animals are prohibited from schools within the Provo City School District.

Because of the high risk of salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis from baby chicks and ducks, these animals are inappropriate in schools without education on safe and proper handling procedures.

Animals Prohibited from School

Wild Animals and Domestic Stray Animals

Because of the high incidence of rabies in bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes and other wild carnivores, these animals should not be permitted in school buildings under any circumstances (including dead animals).

Fur-Bearing Animals (wolf-hybrids, ferrets, etc.,)

These animals may pose a risk for transmitting rabies, as well as parasites, fleas, other diseases and injuries.

Bats

Bats pose a high risk for transmitting rabies. Bat houses should not be installed on school grounds and bats should not be brought into the school building.

Poisonous Animals

Spiders, reptiles, lizards, poisonous snakes, and venomous insects are prohibited for safety reasons 

Presentations and Guests Involving Animals

Classroom guests, parents, and presentations in the schools will be required to adhere to the standards listed above. Principals who are seeking possible exceptions to this procedure must work through the district representative to the State Risk Management Agency.

Approved by Board of Education

September 9, 2014

Policy

Policy No. 4029 Animals as Part of the Instructional Program