WHO: Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools
          John M. Colmers, Secretary,
                Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
          Kathleen Bishop, Principal, Villa Cresta Elementary School
          Sharon Nickerson, School Nurse, Villa Cresta Elementary School

WHAT: This visit will showcase school health nurses/centers and the partnership between MSDE and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene with a focus on medical assistance for families, required immunizations, and new oral health initiatives in Maryland public schools.

All Maryland public school students in Kindergarten through 11th grade must show evidence of having received Hepatitis B and Varicella (chickenpox) vaccinations. Students have up to 20 calendar days to get a valid immunization record from their health care provider.

Parents can visit their child’s physician or local health department to obtain required vaccinations. Local health departments offer free or low cost vaccinations. The deadline for vaccinations is September 15th.

WHEN: Tuesday, September 2, 2008
            9:30 - 10:00 a.m.