7:275 Orders to Forgo Life-Sustaining Treatment

Written orders from parents/guardians to forgo life-sustaining treatment for their child must be signed by the student’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 child is assigned to attend school;
5. The school nurse;
6. Clergy, if requested by the student or his or her parents/guardians;
7. Other individuals to provide support to the student or his or her parents/guardians; and
8. School personnel designated by the Superintendent.

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

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

Legal Reference(s): 

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).

Date Adopted:  November 23, 2004

Date Amended:  October 3, 2017

Date Amended:  November 14, 2023