Alberta Parents Forge Path for Students with Type 1 Diabetes

Parents of children with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Alberta are taking proactive steps to ensure their kids receive better support at school. T1D is an autoimmune condition characterized by the pancreas’s inability to produce insulin, which can lead to serious health implications. Currently, Alberta lacks a consistent standard of care for managing T1D within schools, leaving families to navigate a fragmented system that varies from one school to another.

Unlike provinces such as **British Columbia** and **Nova Scotia**, where clearer frameworks exist, families in Alberta often find themselves relying on individual school principals and teachers. This situation creates uncertainty and anxiety for parents managing a chronic condition that requires constant attention. Two mothers from Alberta, one a teacher and the other a nurse, have experienced this firsthand. They have balanced their professional responsibilities with the demands of managing their children’s health, often needing to modify their careers to ensure their kids can attend school safely.

Recognizing the lack of a comprehensive guide for families and educators, these mothers initiated a grassroots project called **Glucose Scholars**. The project aims to create a collaborative framework for families, educators, and health professionals to enhance the care provided to students with T1D. The initiative began with a critical question: What would it look like if those involved in the education and healthcare of children with diabetes worked together?

In their research, the team reviewed existing resources, including the **Alberta Guidelines for the Care of Students Living with Diabetes at School**, clinic forms, and best practices from other regions. They conducted interviews with families and educators and collaborated with the **Alberta Children’s Hospital Diabetes Clinic** to understand the challenges faced in schools. The feedback was clear: families often felt isolated, while educators wanted to provide support but lacked the tools and guidance to do so effectively.

In May 2023, the **University of Calgary’s Health Systems Transformation Initiative** partnered with Glucose Scholars to host a workshop focused on these issues. This gathering brought together parents, teachers, clinicians, and researchers to share experiences and brainstorm potential solutions. The discussions highlighted a need for practical resources tailored to meet the specific needs of families and schools in Alberta.

Building on these insights, the team developed the **Glucose Scholars Toolkits**. These resources are designed to assist families and schools in implementing the Alberta guidelines effectively. The toolkits aim to provide actionable steps and foster collaboration between families, educators, and healthcare professionals.

By creating a solid baseline of care, these Alberta parents are not only advocating for their children but also paving the way for a more inclusive educational environment for all students living with Type 1 diabetes. Through their efforts, they hope to alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with managing this chronic condition in a school setting.