Meet the Nurse

My name is Grace Velez, RN, and I am proud to serve the students and families of Lincoln Elementary. I graduated from Elmhurst University and began my nursing career in the operating room before transitioning to pediatric primary care, where I discovered my passion for working with children and families.

I am committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all students. I look forward to building strong relationships with families and providing the best possible care to help our students stay healthy and ready to learn

If your child will be absent due to illness or a medical appointment, please contact the nurse so we can best support them during the school day.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 708-450-2036

Illinois Immunization Requirements by Grade

Kindergarten

Students entering Kindergarten must provide:

  • 5 DTaP doses
  • 4 Polio doses
  • 2 MMR doses
  • 2 Varicella doses
  • School physical examination
  • Vision examination
  • Dental examination

2nd Grade

Students entering 2nd Grade must submit:

  • Dental examination form

Due: May 15 of the school year

6th Grade

Students entering 6th Grade must provide:

  • Updated school physical
  • Tdap vaccine
  • Meningococcal vaccine
  • Dental examination

Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines must be given on or after the student’s 11th birthday.

 

Important Reminders for Families

• All health forms and immunization records are typically due by October 15.
• Students who are new to Illinois schools must provide updated immunization records regardless of grade level.
• Medical and religious exemptions must follow Illinois state requirements.
• Students missing required records may be excluded from school until the requirements are completed. (Cook County Department of Public Health)

Important Information for Students with Asthma

Students who have asthma and wish to carry their inhaler at school for self-administration must:

  • Have an Asthma Medication Authorization Form on file at school.
  • Have a pharmacy prescription label attached to the inhaler.
  • Ensure the inhaler is not expired.
Symptoms or Illness When to Stay Home Ready to Return to School
Fever Temperature of 100.4°F or higher orally. 24 hours fever-free without fever-reducing medication.
Vomiting Child feels nauseous or has vomited within the last 24 hours. 24 hours after vomiting has stopped and the child is feeling better.
Diarrhea 3 or more watery or loose stools within 24 hours. After stools are normal for at least 24 hours and the child feels better.
Rash Undiagnosed or contagious rash, especially with fever. After evaluation by a healthcare provider, symptoms may improve.
Coughing / Sore Throat / Strep Throat Persistent cough, sore throat, swollen glands, headache, or stomachache. When symptoms improve. If prescribed antibiotics, after 24 hours of treatment.
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Redness, swelling, drainage, crusting, or eye discomfort. 24 hours after treatment begins or when cleared up by a healthcare provider.
Flu-like Symptoms Fever, body aches, chills, excessive fatigue, or worsening symptoms. When fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms are improving.