The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is reminding families that keeping students in school whenever possible is essential for learning, connection, and well-being. The department’s “Health Guidance for Going to School,” shared with local districts across the county, provides families with clear recommendations to help balance student wellness with consistent school attendance.
El Monte Union High School District (EMUHSD) leaders say the guidance reinforces the district’s ongoing efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism and promote daily engagement. The recommendations outline when students should stay home, when they can safely attend school, and how families can make informed decisions that protect health while supporting learning.
Balancing Health and Learning
According to county health officials, students who are generally healthy and able to participate in daily activities should attend school, even if they have mild cold symptoms, a light cough, or a minor stomachache. Children may return to class once they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication and symptoms are improving.
The county’s guidance discourages keeping students home for mild or improving illnesses that do not interfere with learning. Instead, families are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider or school nurse if symptoms persist or worsen, particularly in cases of fever, persistent cough, eye irritation with swelling or drainage, or unexplained rashes accompanied by fever.
Supporting Mental and Emotional Health
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health also notes that anxiety can affect school attendance. Symptoms may include headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue. In such cases, families are encouraged to reach out to school counselors, psychologists, or nurses for support. EMUHSD campuses provide access to mental health professionals and wellness resources that help students stay engaged and supported.
District administrators say reinforcing these messages benefits both student health and academic outcomes. “When students attend school regularly, they stay connected to their teachers and peers, leading to higher achievement and a stronger sense of belonging,” district officials noted. The district has made improving attendance a priority, introducing outreach programs that educate families on the importance of consistent attendance and how health awareness can prevent avoidable absences.
Communitywide Focus on Attendance
County health experts emphasize that maintaining strong attendance helps students build routine, confidence, and resilience—skills that carry beyond the classroom. They also stress the importance of communication between schools and families when health concerns arise, ensuring that absences are managed appropriately and that returning to class is safe and supported.
El Monte Union staff encourage parents to use these guidelines as a tool for decision-making, noting that improved attendance has a direct impact on academic performance and graduation rates. Families who have questions about specific illnesses or return-to-school timelines are advised to contact their child’s school or healthcare provider for guidance.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health offers detailed information and resources for families at publichealth.lacounty.gov.
