Written orders from parent/guardian to forgo life-sustaining treatment for their child or ward must be signed by the child’s physician and given to the Superintendent.  This policy shall be interpreted in accordance with the Illinois Health Care Surrogate Act 755 ILCS 40/1 . 

Whenever an order to forgo life-sustaining treatment is received, the Superintendent shall convene a multi-disciplinary team that includes:

1. The student, when appropriate;

2. The student’s parent(s)/guardian(s);

3. Other medical professionals, e.g., licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner;

4. Local first responders for the building in which the student is assigned to attend school; 

5. The school nurse;

6. Clergy, if requested by the student or his or her parent(s)/guardians(s);

7. Other individuals to provide support to the student or his or her parent(s)/guardian(s); and

8. School personnel designated by the Superintendent.

The team shall determine specific interventions to be used by school staff members in the event the child suffers a life-threatening episode at school or a school event.  

District personnel shall convey orders to forgo life-sustaining treatment to the appropriate emergency or healthcare provider.

LEGAL REF.: Health Care Surrogate Act,, 755 ILCS 40/

Cruzan v. Director, Missouri Department of Health, 497 U.S. 261 (1990).

In re: C.A., a minor, 603 N.E.2d 1171 (Il. App. 1 Dist., 1992).

Reviewed: December 19, 2005, March 21, 2016, May 20, 2024

Adopted: February 27, 2006