Dup15q Alliance is proud to sign on in support of the California Seizure Safe Bill.
Assembly Bill 2116 would give the state, school districts, and schools, including nurses and employees, the tools needed to adequately provide care and services for students living with epilepsy and seizures, including seizure recognition and first aid training.
This bill seeks that schools collaborate with the parent or guardian of each pupil diagnosed with a seizure disorder to create a seizure action plan, which will provide school nurses and employees with important information specific to that child’s condition. Assembly Bill 2116 will also provide important protections for local educational agencies, or any employee or agent of the local educational agency, acting in good faith and substantial compliance with a pupil’s seizure action plan and the instructions of the pupil’s licensed health care provider.
If passed, the bill would not only benefit students living with epilepsy, but schools and school personnel as well by ensuring that they are prepared to care for a student in the event of an emergency.
Over 3.4 million Americans are currently living with epilepsy and seizures. Of the 3.4 million, 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.
The legislation makes certain that school personnel, including nurses, teachers, and volunteers, are not only prepared but can recognize and respond appropriately and efficiently to the student experiencing a seizure. Even more importantly, the legislation safeguards physician-directed care in the school setting allowing students to access necessary and oftentimes life-saving medication. Lastly, by bringing awareness to the entire educational community, students living with epilepsy or a seizure disorder can feel safe in school, reach their full academic potential, and build meaningful friendships without fear of being stigmatized.
Epilepsy Foundation Rolls Out Seizure Safe Schools Initiative Nationwide
Seizure Safe Schools
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