Beyond Band-Aids: The School Nurse’s Role in the Special Education Process

This session will empower special and general educators to better understand the legal framework guiding nursing services in schools under IDEA and Section 504. Participants will explore case law, FERPA/HIPAA boundaries, and actionable strategies for collaboration with school nurses to ensure student health needs are met while maintaining FAPE.Participants will be able to: 1. Describe the legal responsibilities and boundaries of school nurses under IDEA, Section 504, FERPA, and HIPAA, and explain how these regulations guide the provision of health services in educational settings. 2. Identify when and how to include school nurses in IEP and 504 planning processes, ensuring appropriate supports are documented and implemented to promote student access and participation. 3. Implement strategies for effective collaboration and communication with school nurses, including developing shared protocols for information-sharing, emergency planning, and ongoing student health management within the classroom and school environment.