Community Health Department Investigation

Community Health Department Investigation

Jen Dunham

SC300

May 28, 2012

Prof: Eugene De Silva

Community Health Department Investigation

The Community Health Department has been hired to investigate the number of excessive absences in the band programs at both Truman and Jackson Middle Schools. The reports and interviews that have been provided only tell us a part of the story. This paper will serve as a report on the findings of what caused the two day illness of the student body in the band programs.

Initial Findings – Truman Middle School

The initial findings begin with record number of student absent from the band program at Truman Middle School. On May 20th and 21st, band attendance is reported as being at 33.3% and 23.3% (Independent School District 12, 2012). These are very high numbers, especially directly following several band practices and a concert. Initial interviews with the student’s parents indicate that each child suffered from vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach aches.

Initial Findings – Jackson Middle School

The second initial findings show that Jackson Middle school also suffered from high levels of absenteeism. On May 20th and 21st, band attendance is reported as being 25.0% and 15.6% (Independent School District 12, 2012). These numbers are high, but should not be due to the school having a lighter schedule on practices. Initial interviews with the student’s parents indicate that each child suffered from vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach aches.

Conclusion on Initial Findings

Findings report that Jackson and Truman schools reported that a quarter to a third of the student body were absent in a two day period. The students shared the same symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach aches. This information was confirmed by the parents of the students, proving that there is sometime of illness affecting the children of these two districts.

Testable Hypothesis

The students at both middle schools suffer from a...