Addressing the Educational Concerns of Students with Complex and Chronic Conditions

As advances in medicine increase the number of students with complex and chronic conditions (CCC) served in public schools, educational concerns arise as teachers and schools struggle to meet their unique educational and medical needs. With limited federal and state policies and guidelines related to the education of students with CCC, how their needs are met varies widely across the United States. This articles describes the major educational concerns of students with CCC including chronic absenteeism, academic difficulties, social-emotional difficulties, homebound instruction, and school withdrawal. Recommendations and further considerations are provided concerning guidelines and training along with suggestions for teachers working with students with CCC. Additional resources are also provided for specific areas of concern addressed within the article.