Massachusetts Mandated Health Screenings

Massachusetts law requires public schools to conduct health screenings at specific grade levels. These screenings help identify health concerns that may affect a student’s ability to learn and may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider. Screenings are not diagnostic exams. The grade levels listed below reflect the district’s screening schedule and are based on applicable Massachusetts requirements and guidance.

Parents/guardians will be notified if follow-up is recommended. Parents/guardians are notified in advance of screenings and may opt their child out of a specific screening by submitting a written request to the school nurse. Please specify the screening you are opting your child out of in your request. For questions about screenings or follow-up, please contact your child’s school nurse.

Vision
Grades K–5, 7 and 10

Vision screening helps identify possible vision concerns. 

Hearing
Grades K–3, 7 and 10

Hearing screening helps identify possible hearing concerns. 

Postural Screening
Grades 5–9

Postural screening helps identify possible spinal concerns, including scoliosis. 

Growth and BMI
Grades 1, 4, 7, and 10

Height and weight are measured and used to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a screening tool and does not diagnose a health condition.

SBIRT
Grades 7 and 9

SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment. This brief, confidential screening helps identify possible concerns related to substance use and provides support or referral when appropriate.