Student Biting Policy

STUDENT BITING POLICY ACKNOWLEDGMENT

School Name:     Effective Date:

Student Information

Parent / Guardian Information

Emergency / Medical Information

Policy Overview and Definitions

Purpose: This policy sets forth the procedures for prevention, immediate response, documentation and parental notification for incidents in which a student bites another person. Its application is to all students, staff, volunteers and visitors while on school property or during school-sponsored activities.

Definition: For the purposes of this policy, a biting incident is any event where a student's teeth make contact with another person, whether or not the skin is broken. Biting that results in broken skin, bleeding, bruising, puncture wounds, or requires medical attention is treated with heightened response and documentation.

Immediate Response and Staff Procedures

When a biting incident occurs, staff shall immediately ensure the safety of all involved persons, separate the students involved, render first aid as appropriate, and summon additional medical assistance if necessary. Staff shall:

• Assess and treat injuries using standard first aid protocols and universal precautions;
• Document visible injury, including location and severity;
• Notify the parent or legal guardian of any student who was bitten and of the biting student’s parent or guardian as circumstances require;
• Complete an incident report and submit it to the school administration within the timeframe required by school policy;
• Preserve confidentiality of all students involved consistent with applicable laws and school policy.

Documentation and Reporting

An incident report shall be completed by the staff member who witnessed or first responded to the incident. The report shall include date and time of incident, location, persons involved, witnesses, a factual description of the event, first aid provided, and notification actions taken.

Prevention, Intervention and Training

The school will implement strategies to reduce biting incidents, including supervision, behavior supports, environmental modifications, and staff training in positive behavior intervention and de-escalation techniques. Repeated biting incidents will trigger an individualized plan developed with family involvement.

Parental Notification and Medical Care

If the bite breaks the skin, causes bleeding, or there is concern for infection, parents will be notified immediately. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached and the injury requires prompt medical attention, the school will seek emergency treatment or transport to a medical facility. The school shall document attempts to contact parents and actions taken.

Incident Reporting (To be completed by staff when applicable)

Date of Incident:     Time:

Acknowledgment and Certification

I acknowledge that I have received and read the Student Biting Policy and understand the procedures described above. I understand the school's responsibilities regarding immediate response, documentation, parental notification, and the school's authority to seek emergency care if necessary when I cannot be reached.

I certify that the information provided on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I further understand that the school will take reasonable steps to minimize the risk of biting incidents and that disciplinary or behavioral plans may be implemented for students who repeatedly engage in biting behavior. By signing below, I acknowledge receipt of the policy and consent to the actions authorized above.

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