FILE: JQE

Cf: IDDC

PREGNANT STUDENTS

The School Board is cognizant of the problems of marriage, pregnancy and parenthood among students prior to their graduation from high school. The Board authorizes the Superintendent to assure that such students have the opportunity to earn the education which they deserve.

It is recommended that a pupil who becomes pregnant shall notify the principal or guidance counselor in writing immediately upon knowledge of the condition. Pregnant pupils will be permitted to continue in school in all instances when continued attendance has the sanction of the expectant mother's physician. A physician's statement shall be required to be put on file stating the pupil's medical condition, approval for continued attendance, and activities in which the pupil may not participate. The student shall keep the school administration continually apprised of her progress. The school shall not be held responsible for any medical problems that may arise with a pregnant pupil while she is in school.

Should the student need to be absent from school for a prolonged period of time, the student may enroll in the district's Homebound/TES (Temporary Educational Service) Instruction program until released by her physician to return to regular classes. Should the student not be able to return to regular classes, the student may enroll in the Adult Education program of the Parish.

Marital, maternal, or paternal status shall not affect the rights and privileges of pupils to receive a public education nor to take part in any extracurricular activity offered by the schools.

After delivery, the student shall be permitted to return to school as soon as she is physically able, upon certification by her physician.

Ref: U.S. Const. Amend. XIV, §1, 20 U.S.C. §1681 et seq.; Cleveland Board of Education v. LaFleur, 94 S.Ct. 791 (1974); Davis v. Meeks, 344 F.Supp. 298 (N.D. Ohio 1972); Holt v. Shelton, 371 F.Supp. 821 (M.D. Tenn. 1972).