Advocacy: Seizure Safe Schools

 

Seizure safe

 

There are 470,000 children living with epilepsy in the U.S. Despite the prevalence, epilepsy is still highly misunderstood by the public. For students living with epilepsy, it is important that schools are well-equipped with the tools necessary to provide a safe and enriching environment.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the opportunity for academic success is increased when communities, schools, families, and students work together to meet the needs of students with chronic health conditions and provide safe and supportive learning environments. Direct access to school nursing and other health services, as well as disease-specific education, has been shown to improve health and academic outcomes among students with chronic health conditions.

The Epilepsy Foundation has launched a nationwide initiative to pass Seizure Safe Schools legislation in all states. The model bill has five key components: requiring school personnel to complete a seizure recognition and first-aid response training; mandating that the Seizure Action Plan is made part of the student’s file and made available for school personnel and volunteers responsible for the student; ensuring that any FDA-approved medication prescribed by the treating physician is administered to the student living with epilepsy; educating and training students about epilepsy and first-aid response; and a Good Samaritan clause. The number of components included in the bill will vary by state.

Reviewed By:

Epilepsy Foundation Advocacy

on Friday, March 25, 2022

Resources

Epilepsy Centers

Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.

Epilepsy Medication

Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.

Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline

Call our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.

Tools & Forms

Download our seizure tracking app, print out seizure action plans, or explore other educational materials.

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