My daughter was diagnosed in 2013, about five months before she started kindergarten. I didn't feel like I could ever leave her with another adult, let alone send her to school by herself. So imagine my surprise when I learned that no adult would be designated to help her during the school day.

Most students can manage their diabetes independently or with minimal support, and they can fully participate in school activities, including gym, field trips and celebrations. However, some, especially very young children with type 1 diabetes, may need trained personnel to help administer insulin, monitor blood sugar levels or supervise food intake and activity. Students with diabetes may also need flexibility in school rules to prevent low or high blood sugar, and, in some cases, may also need help with recognizing "lows" and "highs."