Safe at School

Diabetes must be managed 24/7, and for children with diabetes that includes time spent at school or school sponsored activities like field trips and extracurricular activities, in child care programs, and at summer camp or recreational programs. Our Safe at School campaign works to make sure the diabetes management needs of children are met so they are healthy and safe and able to enjoy the same opportunities as their peers. Learn more about legal protections, written care plans, training, help for schools, and more.

Federal law gives students the right to receive the diabetes care they need to be safe and participate in school activities just like any other child. Schools should provide the following:

• Trained staff to monitor blood sugar levels and administer insulin and glucagon
• Trained staff to provide diabetes care during field trips, extracurricular events and all school-sponsored activities
• Capable students permitted to self-manage their diabetes anytime, anywhere

Schools should not:

• Make family members go to school to care for a student’s diabetes
• Transfer students to a different school to get needed diabetes care
• Prevent students with diabetes from participating in field trips, sports and other school-sponsored activities

Read about your child’s rights under Section 504, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other federal laws.

State law

This information was prepared by the American Diabetes Association, a national leader in diabetes information and advocacy. It covers state rules on diabetes care in public schools, and may not include all the important details. We strive to be constantly up to date, but laws can change. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice. If you need more information or help, email askADA@diabetes.org or call us at 1-800-DIABETES (342-2383). We have experienced legal advocates who are here to help.

Some states give more protections, or give helpful guidance on how to best provide diabetes care in the school setting. Learn about your state’s laws and resources here:

Sometimes, state rules are complicated and make it unclear about who can provide care at school. Remember that you child still has rights under federal law, regardless of what state law says.

Specific concerns

You may also have specific questions about your child's rights in specific situations. Learn about common issues, from daycare, camps and recreational programs to extracurricular activities and field trips.

Need more help?

If you have more questions about your child's rights or need help with on-going problems related to diabetes care at school, call us at 1-800-DIABETES (342-2383) or send an email to askada@diabetes.org. Our call center will ask you a few questions about your issue and send your request to the Legal Advocate Program for review and possible assistance.

While the American Diabetes Association attempts to ensure that all legal information is accurate and current, this general legal information is not a substitute for individualized legal advice, particularly in relation to information related to state or local laws or regulations. The law may change or have additional exceptions or interpretations. The American Diabetes Association and its employees are not responsible for any negative results arising from improper reliance on the above information. For detailed and individualized legal advice or representation, contact a locally licensed attorney.