Protecting Students with Medical Needs: Why School Nurses Matter

In Alaska, schools are facing tough choices about budgets. One area that's often on the chopping block is school nurses. But for kids with serious medical conditions, like Type 1 diabetes, having a nurse at school isn't just a comfort—it's a necessity. Type 1 diabetes isn't something that can be managed with a quick fix. It requires constant attention. A wrong move can lead to serious problems, like seizures or even worse. When a child with diabetes is at school, a nurse can step in quickly if something goes wrong. But now, schools are talking about cutting these nursing jobs to save money. Some people think that other school staff can take on these tasks. But managing diabetes isn't just about giving insulin. It's about understanding how food, activity, and illness affect blood sugar. It's about knowing when a small problem could turn into a big emergency. Teachers and office staff aren't trained for this. Asking them to take on this responsibility isn't fair to them or the students. School nurses do more than just help kids with diabetes. They also assist students with seizures, severe allergies, asthma, and other serious conditions. They're often the first to notice when something is wrong. Without nurses, these students might not get the care they need.Cutting nurse positions also raises questions about fairness. Schools are supposed to provide a safe place for all students to learn. For some families, knowing there's a nurse at school is the only reason they can send their child to class. Without that safety net, parents might have to keep their kids at home, which isn't good for anyone. Money is tight, and schools have to make hard decisions. But cutting nurse positions isn't the answer. These nurses keep students safe and help teachers focus on teaching. When staff have to handle medical tasks, it takes time away from the classroom. It also puts extra stress on them. For families with kids who have serious medical conditions, this isn't just a debate—it's a daily reality. They worry about what will happen if their child has a medical emergency at school. They want to know that there will be someone there who knows what to do. Schools should prioritize the safety of all students, especially those with medical needs. Cutting nurse positions might save money now, but it could lead to bigger problems later. Keeping nurses on staff ensures that students with complex medical needs can learn in a safe environment. That's something every child deserves.