Mobility Devices

Information for Families Regrading Mobility Devices: Braces, Casts, Crutches, Walkers, Canes, Scooters and Wheelchair Use at School

To ensure student safety, all students who return to school with a mobility device (e.g. cast, crutches, and/or wheelchair)  must have a doctor’s order which includes the following: 

• Student’s Name
• Name and signature of the licensed prescriber and business & emergency phone numbers
• Date of the order
• Diagnosis and any other medical condition(s) requiring medication (if not a violation of confidentiality or if not contrary to the request of a parent, guardian, or student to keep confidential)
• Any restrictions (P.E., sports, recess, weight-bearing, stairs, etc.) 
• Date(s) of restriction 
• For crutches and/or a wheelchair, the doctor/provider must indicate that crutches and/or a wheelchair are to be used at school and that the student has been instructed in the proper use of crutches and/or wheelchair. Medford Public Schools does not recommend that a student with crutches be allowed to ambulate stairs. However, if a student’s physician is allowing this, it must be stated so in writing by the physician. Crutches and wheelchairs will not be issued or loaned from the Health Office. 

Exclusion from school may apply if the requested documentation is not provided.

The student will need to check in with the school nurse on the first day back to school so that accommodations can be made for his/her safety at school. If possible, the parent/guardian should accompany the student to the Health Office so that the following may be discussed:   

• Extra passing time between classes so the student can avoid crowded hallways, locker areas, etc. 
• Authorization for Medication at School if medication is required at school (i.e. pain) 
• Procedure for the use of elevator (if applicable) 
• Personal hygiene/bathroom issues 
• Any restrictions 
• Other accommodations and instructions

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your child’s School Nurse.