New Bill Proposes $34.5M Grant Program for Seizure Training and Student Support Plans in Schools

This proposed legislation, the "Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act," aims to bolster support for students with epilepsy or seizure disorders by amending the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. It establishes a competitive grant program, authorizing $34.5 million between fiscal years 2026 and 2030. The core idea is to fund state efforts, which in turn provide subgrants to local school districts specifically for enhancing seizure awareness and preparedness among school personnel.

Putting Safety Plans into Action

The funding is primarily earmarked for training school staff. This isn't just a one-off session; the bill requires training every two years for relevant personnel, including those involved in after-school programs. This training, coordinated by the school nurse and using approved materials from national epilepsy nonprofits, focuses on recognizing seizures, appropriate first aid, and understanding individualized health care plans (IHCPs) and individualized emergency health care plans (IEHCPs). These aren't generic forms; they are detailed documents developed by the student's doctor, parents, and school nurse, outlining specific symptoms, required care, medication protocols, activity accommodations (like for sports or field trips), and communication strategies between home, school, and healthcare providers. For instance, an IHCP would detail exactly what steps a teacher should take if a student exhibits specific pre-seizure symptoms noted by their doctor.

Expanding the Safety Net

Beyond the mandatory training on plans and general awareness, the grants offer flexibility. Schools could use funds to train designated staff to administer seizure rescue medications, educate the student body about epilepsy to reduce stigma, or even hire staff dedicated to ensuring compliance with these new requirements. The bill extends awareness to transportation, requiring school bus drivers to be notified about students with epilepsy on their routes, receive information on care, emergency contacts, and basic seizure recognition training. Recognizing that staff might hesitate to intervene without clear guidance, the bill includes liability protection for school employees who act in good faith according to a student's plan and their training, unless their actions constitute willful misconduct or gross negligence.

Funding the Initiative

The bill authorizes $34.5 million over five years (FY2026-2030) to get this program running. Critically, it includes a "Supplement, Not Supplant" clause. This means the federal grant money must add to existing state and local resources dedicated to student health and safety, not replace them. While implementing these plans and training requires an administrative effort from schools, the goal is to create a more consistently safe and supportive environment for students managing seizure disorders, ensuring their specific needs are understood and addressed throughout the school day and during school activities.