Training Resources for School Staff
The Association has many training and support materials that can prepare and educate school staff to provide needed care to students with diabetes.
Using these resources and working in collaboration with students, their parents, and their diabetes providers, schools can ensure that every child with diabetes has the best opportunity to get a great education and can safely participate in all school activities.
Learn about our online resources below that may be used by a school nurse or other qualified health care professional to train school staff
Helping the student with diabetes succeed: A guide for school personnel
The American Diabetes Association provides this interim school guide reflecting important changes in diabetes technology and treatment in the school setting, along with the 2016 NDEP guide in its original form for easy reference.
Diabetes Care tasks at school: what key personnel need to know
Check out our PowerPoint module online training curriculum designed to train school staff in diabetes care tasks. Whether school staff are providing diabetes care for the first time or just need a refresher, this is a useful resource. Each module consists of a short PowerPoint presentation and a post-test at the end. Videos accompany most of the modules.
Safe at School childcare modules
These modules provide an overview of legal protections for children with diabetes and basic diabetes management for childcare managers and employees.
Understanding diabetes poster
The Association's "Understanding Diabetes" poster should be used to educate and alert school employees and others who provide care and supervision to students about the symptoms of diabetes.
Diabetes Medical Management Plan (DMMP)
The Diabetes Medical Management Plan (DMMP) prescribes the health care provider orders for all diabetes care provided in the school setting. This individually developed plan is developed and signed by the student’s diabetes provider. The DMMP is the basis for all the health care and education plans designed to meet the needs of students with diabetes.
Pre- and post-test modules for school training
The Association’s Safe at School pre- and post-tests can be used in conjunction with Diabetes Care Tasks At School: What Key Personnel Need To Know to assess pre- and post-training diabetes knowledge. Pre - and Post - Test Modules Answer Key
School nurse pump training skills checklist
The Association’s Safe at School, School Nurse Pump Training Skills Checklist was designed for school nurses and/or designated school employees who provide care for students with diabetes on insulin pumps.
Recommendations for use of continuous glucose monitors in the school setting
The Safe at School campaign has updated CGM and sensor recommendations for the 2020-2021 school year that provides school nurses, providers, and families with guidance in providing care to students who use this technology.
State diabetes resources
Many states have created specific diabetes resources, guidelines, and materials for schools. These materials are found on the Association's state-specific pages and most may also be accessed through the state's education and/or health department. Check out your state's policies for additional resources.
Insulin guidance for school nurses
Insulin come in different concentrations. It is critical to look at the insulin pen or vial for the concentration before dosing insulin. This guidance will provide information to help ensure safety for students with diabetes.
Tips for School Nurses
Tips for School Nurses provide ideas to help the school nurse coordinate diabetes care in the school setting. Tips include planning for the care newly diagnosed or returning student, where to seek training resources, preparation for field trips, what information to provide to transportation, and other information.
Frequently Asked Questions on Diabetes Care for School Officials
Find the answers to some of the common questions school staff have about diabetes care at school. Should students be allowed to test blood sugar in the classroom? Is calling 911 an adequate substitute for having school staff trained to respond to an emergency? Are honors students eligible for a 504 Plan?
Medical and Scientific Sources of Authority
Get more information on diabetes care in school, including position statements from stakeholder organizations, journal articles, research and best practices. These resources can help your school or district implement practices that ensure a great school experience for your students with diabetes.
Tips to help teachers keep kids with diabetes safe at school (PPT)
This PowerPoint Presentation and talking points help inform teachers about how to keep kids with diabetes safe at school. School nurses and parents can work together to present the information. The presentation defines diabetes, describes warning signs for immediate concerns such as hypoglycemia, and gives tips for helping students with diabetes succeed in the classroom. There are two handouts that go along with this presentation:
Other References
- Tips for Teachers
- Solutions for Common Diabetes Management Concerns in the Classroom (PDF)
- Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) Emergency Care Plan
- Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) Emergency Care Plan
- Giving School Nurses a Better Understanding of Diabetes”, Diabetes Forecast, September 2018
Page updated December 10, 2020