Health Screenings

Texas law mandates spinal screening for students in schools. The district follows the Texas Department of State Health Services screening schedule. 
 
This is done in a private environment by 2 school nurses who are specially trained.  The purpose of spinal screening is to detect the signs of abnormal curves of the spine at their earliest stages so that the need for evaluation and/or treatment can be determined.

Scoliosis, a common spinal abnormal curvature, is a sideways twisting of the spine. It is usually detected in adolescents between 10 and 14 years of age. Kyphosis, sometimes called round back, is an exaggerated rounding of the upper back and is often confused with poor posture. Many cases of curvature of the spine are mild and require only ongoing observation by a physician when they are first diagnosed. Others can worsen with time as the child grows and require active treatment such as bracing or surgery. Early detection and treatment can prevent the development of a severe deformity, which can affect a person’s health and appearance.

Texas law mandates vision and hearing screening for students in grades PK, K, 1, 3, 5 and 7 as well as students in other grades who are new to WSISD.  Vision and hearing screenings are conducted in the fall or within 120 days of a student’s enrollment.