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Health and Wellness

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Mental Health Resources

Please visit our Student & Family Services page for a comprehensive list of mental health resources, including hotlines. 

Mindfulness Apps

Type 1 Diabetes Information

This type 1 diabetes information was developed pursuant to the Pennsylvania School Code (24 P.S. 1414.12) and is for school entities and nonpublic schools to provide parents and guardians of incoming elementary school students and students entering grade six, beginning with the 2025-2026 School Year. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that can be fatal if untreated, and the guidance provided in this information sheet is intended to raise awareness about this disease. 

Description

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children and young adults, but can occur at any age

  • Type 1 diabetes generally appears at two noticeable peaks. The first peak occurs in children between 4 and 7 years old. The second is in children between 10 and 14 years old. (Mayo Clinic)

Type 1 diabetes affects insulin production

  • Normally the body turns the carbohydrates in food into glucose (blood sugar), the basic fuel for the body's cells. 
  • The pancreas makes insulin, a hormone that moves glucose from the blood into cells.
  • In type 1 diabetes, the body's pancreas stops making insulin, and blood glucose levels rise.
  • Over time, glucose can reach dangerously high levels in the blood, which is called hyperglycemia. 
  • Untreated hyperglycemia can result in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a life-threatening complication of diabetes. 

Risk Factors Associated with Type 1 Diabetes

It is recommended that children displaying warning signs and symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes described below, should be screened (tested) for the disease by their health care provider. 

Risk Factors

Researchers do not completely understand why some people develop type 1 diabetes and others do not. However, having a family history of type 1 diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing type 1 diabetes. Other factors might play a role in developing type 1 diabetes, including environmental triggers such as viruses. Type 1 diabetes is not caused by diet or lifestyle choices. 

Warning Signs and Symptoms Associated with Type 1 Diabetes and Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Warning signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children develop quickly, in a few weeks or months, and can be severe. If your child displays the warning signs below, contact your child's primary health care provider or pediatrician for a consultation to determine if screening your child for type 1 diabetes is appropriate. 

  • Increased thirst
  • Increased urination, including bed wetting after toilet training
  • Increased hunger, even after eating
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Very dry skin
  • Slow healing of sores or cuts
  • Moodiness, restlessness, irritability, or behavior changes

DKA is a complication of untreated type 1 diabetes. DKA is a medical emergency. Symptoms include: 

  • Fruity breath
  • Dry/flushed skin
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pains
  • Trouble breathing
  • Confusion

Type 1 Diabetes Treatments

There are no known ways to prevent type 1 diabetes. Once type 1 diabetes develops, medication is the only treatment. If your child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, their health care provider will be able to help develop a treatment plan. Your child's health care provider may refer your child to an endocrinologist, a doctor specializing in the endocrine system and its disorders, such as diabetes. Contact your child's school nurse, school administrator, or health care provider if you have questions. 

References

This information is courtesy of the PA Department of Health: Download the Type 1 Diabetes Information Sheet or the Información sobre diabetes tipo 1

 

Student & Family Resources

Please visit our Student & Family Services page for a comprehensive list of resources for families in need of assistance with food, clothing, and other necessities. Please contact your child's school counselor or the district social worker for additional information. 

Public Health Resources

When Is Sick Too Sick for School?

A regular attendance routine is important for your child's well-being and learning. These tips can help you decide when to keep your child home when they don't feel well.

 

SEND ME TO SCHOOL IF . . .

  • I have a runny nose or just a little cough, but no other symptoms.
  • I have NOT had a fever overnight and have NOT taken fever-reducing medicine during that time.
  • I have a mild stomachache.
  • I have not thrown up overnight and can drink liquids without throwing up.
  • I have a mild rash and no other symptoms.
  • I have eye drainage WITHOUT fever, eye pain, or eyelid redness.

 

KEEP ME AT HOME IF . . .

  • I have a temperature higher than 100.4.
  • I have thrown up two or more times in the past 24 hours.
  • My stool is watery and I may not make it to the bathroom in time.

 

 

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF . . . 

  • I have a temperature higher than 100.4 AND any of the following: ear pain, sore throat, rash, stomachache, headache, or tooth pain.
  • I have stomach pain and fever, I have bloody or black stool, or I am dehydrated (tired and sleepy, dry mouth) and/or have not urinated in the last 8 hours.
  • I have a persistent cough or trouble breathing, or have a fever with the cough.
  • I have eye swelling, eye pain, or an eye injury.
  • I have a rash that has blisters, is draining, is painful, looks like bruises, and/or I have a fever with a rash.

If you don't know whether to send your child to school, have specific concerns regarding your child's physical or mental health, or are worried your child will spread illness, contact your child's health care provider, a local urgent care, or the school nurse. These tips are not meant to take the place of local health department/school district guidance, including about contagious illnesses such as COVID or the flu. 

This material is courtesy of Attendance Works, Kaiser Permanente, and the National Association of School Nurses.

Cold & Flu Season - What Can You Do to Stop the Spread

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Wear a mask when in public places.
  • Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, do not use your hands!
  • Clean surfaces frequently, such as countertops, light switches, cell phones, and other frequently-touched areas.
  • Practice social distancing - stay home as much as you can.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Contain - if you are sick, stay home until you feel better.

Triennial Wellness Assessment

through the Pennsylvania Department of Health
(posted 3.22.24)