When a bat or bat colony is found on school property and may have contacted students, the school district needs to inform parents and guardians. Below is a sample letter that can be adapted for a specific situation or school. Be sure to protect the confidentiality of those involved.

Date

Dear Parents and Guardians:

This letter is to inform you that a bat was found in _______ (specific location) at ____________ School around ______________ (time) on ________ (date). Procedures to remove the bat and protect students, employees, and visitors were followed according to school district and  public health guidelines for rabies specimen submission and testing.

[Note: Continue with one of the next three paragraphs]

[1] We have not identified anyone who had contact with the bat.

[2] The individuals who were in contact with the bat have been referred to a physician for medical attention.

[3] We are in the process of identifying faculty, staff, students, and visitors who may have been in contact with the bat. Please interview your children about this incident and call the school nurses immediately at________________(phone number) if you believe your child touched this bat.

The building was inspected by _______ [name of school district] maintenance personnel and approved for occupancy.

The campus will be monitored for a _______ [time period] “watch period,” by trained school district personnel who will inspect the interior and exterior of the facility for any signs of bats. School officials will take the appropriate actions and notify you if any more bats are found.

We are committed to providing a safe environment for our children. Inspections to keep the campus free of pests are conducted throughout the year. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Principal