Boise School District Health Services

K - 6 Curriculum

Each year the school nurse teaches part of the state mandated Health Curriculum. All of the information is introduced in an age appropriate manner, follows our School Board approved health textbook and will meet the requirements as outlined in the state guidelines. This information is available to preview on the District's Curriculum web site or from the school nurse.

In Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades, students will learn about types of germs and how they are spread. In addition the students will learn healthy behaviors that will reduce their chance of becoming sick, and how to protect themselves.

In 3rd and 4th grades, students will continue to learn about germs. They will also learn how certain viruses can affect their bodies and cause illnesses. One specific lesson will address bloodborne pathogens (HIV, Hepatitis B and C) and how students can protect themselves by not touching other people’s blood or contaminated needles.

In 5th and 6th grades, the students will have a lesson that focuses on growth and development. The students will learn about the physical characteristics and emotions that accompany adolescence and puberty. They will also learn about appropriate hygiene and health needs. In 5th grade, students will learn about the characteristics of their own gender. The girls will learn about the female anatomy and physiology and the boys will learn about male anatomy and physiology. In 6th grade, opposite gender characteristics will be introduced. For all of these lessons in 5th and 6th grade, we will separate the students by gender.

In 5th and 6th grades, students will continue to learn about communicable and noncommunicable illnesses and how to make good choices in regards to their own health. One specific lesson will address bloodborne pathogens (HIV, Hepatitis B and C) and how students can protect themselves by not touching other people’s blood, certain body fluids or contaminated needles. In addition to this, 6th grade students will learn about sexually transmitted diseases. Prevention of these diseases will focus on abstinence and saying no to illegal drug use.

Exclusion forms are available if you would prefer that your child not attend one of the above-mentioned bloodborne pathogen lessons. If you would like to discuss this or have any other questions about this Health Curriculum, please contact the school nurse.