Elementary nurse in Arlington Heights under investigation for alleged misuse of students’ prescription drugs
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. — An elementary nurse is under investigation in Arlington Heights for the alleged “misuse” of prescription medication intended for students.
A District 25 administrator said they were made aware of an allegation regarding the “potential misuse of prescription medication intended for specific student use.”
The registered nurse works at Westgate Elementary School and has been placed on administrative leave during the investigation by Arlington Heights police.
No charges have been filed at this time.
The district said they contacted families of Westgate students that use medication in the school.
“Like you, we are deeply disappointed to learn of this potential breach of trust,” the district said.
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The full letter sent to parents is below.
“We want to inform you about an incident at Westgate Elementary School that we are taking very seriously. On Monday evening, April 22, an Arlington Heights School District 25 administrator was made aware of concerns and documentation regarding a licensed registered nurse at Westgate and the potential misuse of prescription medication intended for specific student use. This staff member has been placed on administrative leave.
We immediately reported this matter to the Arlington Heights Police Department and then to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The Arlington Heights Police Department has initiated an investigation. District 25 is cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation of this matter and will not hesitate to take appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action if warranted.
We contacted the families of the Westgate students for whom the District maintains Authorization of Medication Administration forms that allow for the dispensing of their prescription medications consistently during school days or activities. These parents or guardians were asked to come to Westgate to verify both the contents and the quantity of medication maintained onsite at the health office and were provided with contact information for the detective leading the investigation to report any concerns or inconsistencies.
Like you, we are deeply disappointed to learn of this potential breach of trust. The safety and well-being of our students, staff and school community is a top priority. Please know that all District 25 staff members are subject to extensive pre-employment background checks.
In an abundance of caution, we will be working with the Cook County Department of Public Health and the Illinois State Board of Education to review our policies and protocols to ensure the oversight and integrity of medication.”
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