Diabetes in school

Every diabetic student we have here at PHCS is a Type I diabetic. Their pancreas is not making insulin. Insulin helps break down glucose into energy. Even though it is a life long disease and there is not cure, it can be managed. Some of our students need help managing their diabetes. Others are self sufficient and only need to us if there is a problem. Those that need help, are usually checked by the nurse a few times a day. Times when they might need to be checked include in the morning,  before or after exercising and around meals.  Each of our diabetics prefer different ways of us helping them. Sometimes we'll step in the classroom to speak with them quietly for a couple minutes, or some may want to step outside the classroom for their check. The beginning of this year will be a little crazy as we figure out how to best help them while keeping them safe in regards to COVID-19. They are at a higher risk for COVID because of their diabetes. So please bear with us as we figure out what will work best for them and us!

Each diabetic student has a medical care plan or health plan in the nurses office.  This plan contains parameters for the management of  their diabetes.  You should receive an email if you're a teacher with a diabetic student. Never hesitate to call the school nurse or contact her if you have any questions about your diabetic student.

Just a few reminders to all teachers about some of their accommodations:

1. They can carry all of their supplies with them and access them during class. This can include snacks and cell phones. Most of them have an app on their phone that is connected to their CGM (continuous glucose monitor). It may go off during class if their glucose is too high or too low. Sometimes they keep extra supplies in the nurse's office. 

2. They may need to eat a snack in class to help raise their glucose. 

3. They should be allowed to have a water bottle with them and be able to use the bathroom as needed.

4. They may need to sit out of PE. Most of them do their best to rejoin when they can.

5. They may need to wait to take a test. If their glucose is not in a target range, they should be able to wait, or reschedule the test. Low or high glucose can cause confusion and difficulty concentrating.

6. They may need to go to the nurse's office if their glucose is high or low. PLEASE do not send them alone.  Make sure another student or adult walks with them.

7. High School age diabetics will eventually be on a 504. This is to make sure they are allowed "electronics" during testing, like the ACT or SAT.