Iowa law now requires that children enrolling in kindergarten provide proof of having been tested for blood lead levels before they are 6 years old. There are exemptions to the law in cases of religious exemption or in cases where the Iowa Department of Public Health determines the child is at an extremely low risk of lead exposure. Exemptions must be approved by the Iowa Department of Public Health. If you have questions or need assistance, contact the Iowa Department of Public Health’s blood lead bureau at 1-800-972-2026.

Iowa law requires all students entering kindergarten and ninth grade complete a dental screening.  It can be completed by a  licensed doctor, advanced registered nurse practitioner, physician assistant, nurse, dental hygienist, or a dentist. 

Heartland Area Education Agency (AEA) will conduct an annual Hearing Conservation Program at each elementary school during the school year. All students in grades K-5 will receive a hearing screening. Students who do not pass this screening may receive individual hearing tests by an audiologist and consultation with school personnel. Parents will be notified about the results of the hearing tests only if their child does not pass the test.

This is a screening process only, and does not identify all hearing or ear problems. If your child has had hearing or ear problems recently, feel free to send this information to the school nurse for the audiologist. If you do not want your child to participate in the screening program and follow-up assessments by an audiologist, please notify your school. If there are any questions about the hearing testing program in your school, please contact the school nurse or principal.

The State of Iowa requires all incoming kindergarten and third-grade students to have a vision screening prior to the first day of school. This exam can be completed by a licensed eye doctor or optometrist, your child’s health care provider at the time of his or her school physical, a free clinic, or a county health department.