Varicella and herpes simplex are two viral causes of vesicular rashes in school-aged children. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) usually causes cold sores but may present as herpes gladiatorum—sores or blisters elsewhere on the body, seen in wrestlers or those who play contact sports. Varicella (chickenpox) requires prompt identification as case exclusion, notifications and reporting are needed. School staff should be knowledgeable about the potential for these infections; differentiate between conditions based on the student’s symptoms, location, vaccination history, and activities; and know the appropriate steps to prevent the spread of these viruses to other students and staff.