Students with Chronic Illnesses: Guidance for Families, School, Students”
...d in the well being of the child. “School health advocates agree that meeting the needs of these children requires collaboration among the students, their families, school personnel, and community health care providers.” (American School Health Association) This program makes evident that it “takes a village to raise a child.” “The guide addresses issues such as routine and urgent care needs of students, medication access and administration, and school personnel training to ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. While emphasizing the value of adopting general policies for supporting students with chronic conditions, the Chronic 3 guide also encourages schools to develop and implement conditions specific and individualized protocols.” (American School Health Association) In addressing these issues, the guide provides a framework for all involved in the children’s life, in order to take preventive measures in dealing with these children’s illnesses. The family’s responsibilities comprise of: “Notifying the school of the student’s health management needs and diagnosis when appropriate, as well as notifying schools as early as possible and whenever the student’s health needs change. Meeting with the school team to develop a plan to accommodate health program staff and the student’s personal health care providers. Educating the student to develop age-appropriate self-care skills. (American School Health Association) Some of the school district’s responsibilities include: “Developing and implementing district wide guidelines and protocols to chronic illness generally and specific protocols for asthma, allergies, diabetes, epilepsy, and other common chronic illnesses of students. Monitoring schools for compliance with chronic illness care protocols.” (American School Health Association) Some of the school’s responsibilities are: to “identify with chronic conditions and review their health records as submitted by families and health care providers. To provide appropriate health education to students and staff, as well as promoting good general health, personal care, nutrition, and physical activity.” (American School Health Association) The student’s responsibilities comprise of: “Notifying an adult about concerns and needs in managing his or her symptoms or the school environment. Participating in the Chronic...