Olathe Public Schools recognizes the growing number of students enrolling in our schools with history of diabetes and the need for a set of consistent practices for addressing the needs of students with diabetes. We recognize our responsibility to develop individualized healthcare plans for such students that include steps to follow in the event of an emergency. Collaboration between the parent, supervising physician and the school is essential in the development and success of these plans.

These guidelines are intended to serve as a "best practice" model to utilize with applicable students. The school nurse will serve as the lead school employee in implementing these guidelines. Official Board of Education policy for care of students with diabetes is included in board Policy JGC: Student Health Services and JGFGB: Administering Medication During School Hours.

Most students with diabetes need to be considered for eligibility under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as a student with a disability as defined in these regulations requiring accommodations at school. The school nurse will coordinate with the building 504 coordinator to facilitate the Section 504 process as indicated

All Students with Diabetes

Upon parent report of the condition, the school nurse will obtain a history intake regarding the student's current health status and management. The parent will provide physician orders (usually a multi-page document from the primary physician and/or nurse diabetes educator) and discuss the management procedures including administration of medication at school and an emergency care plan (also referred to as an Anticipated Health Crisis Plan). The age of the student, length of time with the diagnosis, and individual self-management skills will be considered in individualizing care. Based upon typical developmental skills and recommendations from experts in the field, Olathe Public Schools recommends the following graduated independence in care continuum:

Early Childhood

The school nurse monitors all diabetic care.

Elementary

The school nurse is available to monitor all diabetic care, carb counting/insulin ratio with adult supervision (preferably the school nurse), with allowance for increasing independence in blood glucose monitoring in upper elementary grades.

Middle School

Lunchtime carb counting/insulin ratio to be done under the supervision of the school nurse, with additional guidance provided for "out of the ordinary" lows and highs working toward increasing independence by 8th grade.

High School

Student working toward independence in diabetes care upon agreement of school nurse, student, parents and physician. Initial once per day oversight by school nurse encouraged to establish student baseline.

In conclusion, annual meetings with the school nurse and family are essential to ensure student safety while working toward independence with diabetic care. Nurse contact during the school day will vary with each student based on individual needs and student competency with self-care. All students regardless of age will need assistance in treating low blood sugars.