About this information:
This information was prepared by the Legal Advocacy division of the American Diabetes Association® (ADA), a national leader in diabetes information and advocacy. This information covers state rules on diabetes care in District of Columbia schools, and may not include all the relevant rules and important details. While ADA strives to provide current information, laws and resources can frequently change. This information is not legal advice and professional legal advice should be sought as needed.1. Does the District of Columbia allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer insulin?
Yes. A trained employee or agent of a school, acting under the general supervision of a licensed health practitioner, may administer medication to a student for diabetes. CDCR 22-B610.2 (2014). Specifically, public schools must train and choose at least two full time unlicensed staff to provide diabetes care:
“Each school is required to have three staff trained to administer medication to students, and two of these staff must be specially trained to manage diabetes. If your child requires a special treatment that the school nurse is unable to administer, the school nurse’s supervisor will assign another nurse to come to your child’s school to provide the treatment.” District of Columbia Public Schools, Medication and Treatment at Schools
2. Does the District of Columbia allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer glucagon?
Yes. As stated above, unlicensed District of Columbia Public School staff who are trained as diabetes care providers may administer medication for diabetes. CDCR 22-B610.2 (2014).
Additionally, schools are now permitted to use undesignated glucagon in emergencies. Schools must designate at least 2 employees to be trained in glucagon administration.
“By June 1, 2024, the Department shall obtain a standing order signed by at least one physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice nurse licensed in the District to permit public schools to use undesignated emergency medications. […] Each public school shall, designate at least 2 employees or agents of the school to be certified in the use of undesignated emergency medications who are available to administer medications during all hours of the school day.” D.C. Law 25-124.
3. Does the District of Columbia allow students to self-manage diabetes at school?
Yes. for self-management in general. With written authorization from a parent and a health practitioner, a student may “possess and self-administer” medication in school, anytime and anywhere. D.C. Code § 38-651.03. This includes diabetes medication. CDCR 22-B610.2 (2014). A student may be “subjected to disciplinary action” for misusing medication, but may not have prescription medication taken away. D.C. Code § 38-651.10.
4. Does the District of Columbia allow students to carry diabetes supplies such as needles, insulin, and blood glucose testing devices?
Yes. As stated, students with authorization from a parent and health practitioner may “possess” medication for diabetes at school and at school activities. D.C. Code § 38-651.03; CDCR 22-B610.2 (2014). State law is not clear if a student must be allowed to possess all types of diabetes care supplies, such as glucometers, but there are no barriers, either.
5. Does the District of Columbia allow students with diabetes to carry cellphones or smart devices for medical purposes?
The District of Columbia currently does not have any statewide cellphone restrictions or bans for schools. However, individual schools or districts may create their own policies. If your child is having challenges with cell phone access at school, please contact us at 1-800-DIABETES or email AskADA@diabetes.org. Additional resources can be found on our Safe at School homepage.
Resources:
For more information, see the following helpful resources:
- District of Columbia Code Section 38-651.03, Medication action plan
- District of Columbia Municipal Regulation Section 22-B610 (Download Required)
Additional Safe at School resources are available at diabetes.org/safeatschool. To receive information and guidance about a school diabetes care issue, contact 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or AskADA@diabetes.org.
