Going to School

There is a lot to do before your starting school. You might need to shop for supplies or get new school clothes.

Well, there’s one more important thing you should add to the list: Talking to the school nurse, your new teacher or principal about CF. You can work with teachers and faculty to make CF a little easier to handle at school.

You may want to start with an Individual Education Plan (IEP), which is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Or you may need a 504 plan under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Here are examples of things an IEP can do:

• Give time during the school day for your prescribed treatment

• Get approval for children to take their medicines, like pancreatic enzymes, during school.

• Make a plan for homework or tutoring if a hospitalization is necessary

• Change attendance rules

• Provide access to a private bathroom

• Waive rules regarding access to the bathroom or water

• Create a medical emergency plan for school

Find out more about IEPs and 504 plans by checking them out online.

Reach out to school faculty before the start of each new school year to make sure plans are up-to-date. As with many things you’ll face, your CF Care Team can help. Ask your CF Care Team for ideas on how to help yourself or your child get the most out of school.