How to Manage Diabetes at School

Let's explore beyond the 504...

This is the time of year where children around the US (and likely around the world for my international readers) are heading back to school. While it’s a return to the familiar school routine for many, it can also be very stressful as parents and kids navigate managing diabetes “long-distance” and possibly more independently than the year before. If this is you, you might have been working with your school to craft a 504 plan, a document that ensures that students are treated equally at school while remaining medically safe.

(Important note: 504 plans are technically only required by public schools or those receiving federal funding, although some private schools may set up something similar. But colleges that receive federal funding, which are public and many private colleges, will offer a 504 plan. Check out the Diabetes Link for more on college and diabetes!)

But let’s say you’ve done all that. You’ve got the 504 plan figured out. Blood sugars will be considered and tests can be rescheduled, staff will be trained to administer glucagon, eating when needed is allowed. You’re feeling good(ish).

What else can you do to prepare? Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you and your student have a smoother start to the year.