(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board, during a special meeting Wednesday morning, approved a new head lice policy.

The change will allow students with live lice to remain in class instead of being sent home for treatment.

The policy change was proposed at last month's board meeting and was further discussed when the board meet Monday evening, with final approval delayed until Wednesday's special meeting.

The new policy follows updated CDC and Kansas School Nurse Organization guidelines.

The biggest problem with head lice is at the elementary school, where School Nurse Heather Gildersleeve said they are sending at least two students a week home with lice, mostly the same kids.

The Board agreed the district should purchase treatment kits so they are able to treat students at school for lice, with the permission of their parents.  The concern is irresponsible parents who would neglect to treat the live bugs.

Gildersleeve said lice are spread by direct contact with the hair of an infested person and don't jump.

Meanwhile, at Monday's regular board meeting, the board accepted a $4,605 donation from Steve Lock, on behalf of the class of 1970, to be used toward the purchase of tables for around the concession stand at Memorial Stadium.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser placed the total cost to complete the project at around $7,600.