During the Kershaw County School Board meeting on August 1, 2025, significant discussions centered around the introduction of a new policy aimed at enhancing safety for students with seizure disorders. The proposed "Seizure Safe Schools" policy, designated as JLCG, is a response to the Seizure Safe Schools Act enacted by the South Carolina General Assembly in 2024. This legislation mandates that school districts implement specific training and action plans to support students diagnosed with epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
Miss Becky presented the policy, outlining its key components, which include the establishment of a seizure training program for school personnel. This program will ensure that staff are equipped to recognize seizure symptoms, respond appropriately, and administer necessary medications. Training will be conducted annually and will adhere to guidelines from reputable organizations, such as the Epilepsy Foundation of America. Documentation of training completion will be provided to staff members.
Additionally, the policy requires the development of individualized seizure action plans for each student with a seizure disorder. These plans will be created in collaboration with parents or guardians and healthcare professionals, ensuring that each student's specific needs are met. School nurses will primarily oversee the administration of seizure medications, with trained staff available to assist in their absence.
The meeting also addressed updates to the Individual Health Care Plans (IHP) policy, which will now incorporate seizure action plans and standardize templates to ensure consistency across the district. These updates align with established nursing classifications to enhance the quality of care provided to students.
The Kershaw County School District aims to implement these changes by July 1, 2025, in compliance with the new legislation. Staff training is set to commence at the beginning of the 2025 school year, with ongoing evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the training and policy updates.
This initiative reflects the district's commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive educational environment for all students, particularly those with seizure disorders. By proactively addressing these needs, Kershaw County is taking significant steps to enhance the support and safety of its student population.