Three staff members at a school in New Haven are on leave after school officials allege that one of them gave a child an over-the-counter medication against the school system’s policy.
The incident occurred at an early childhood program where a parent alleged that a child was given an unspecified medication and felt drowsy afterward, according to a joint statement issued this week by the New Haven Police Department and New Haven Public Schools.
“New Haven Public School’s policy is clear: School nurses are solely responsible for distributing prescription or over-the-counter medication to students and other staff members are not permitted to do so under any circumstances,” the statement said.
According to officials, the student was given the medication by a part-time staff member while two other staff members were in the room. All three individuals have been placed on leave.
School officials said they contacted the state Department of Children and Families once they learned of the allegation. The agency is investigating along with police and the school system.
“Once these investigations are complete, NHPS will take appropriate disciplinary action against any employees who violated these polices as we simultaneously work to support our students and ensure their safety,” officials said.