Las Vegas, Nevada – Earlier this month, the Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly concluded its impactful participation in the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) 2026 Conference, held at the iconic Caesars Palace. Bringing together school nurses from every corner of the nation, the conference served as a vital forum for advancing student health, sharing best practices, and strengthening the safety protocols that underpin a thriving educational environment. As a key exhibitor, Epilepsy Alliance America seized the opportunity to fortify its commitment to supporting students with epilepsy, offering invaluable resources and fostering direct connections with the frontline heroes of school health.
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The presence of Epilepsy Alliance America at such a pivotal gathering underscored the organization’s dedication to ensuring that every student living with epilepsy receives the understanding, support, and immediate care necessary for their well-being and academic success. Through comprehensive educational tools, robust training programs, and a steadfast advocacy agenda, EAA is actively working to transform schools into "Seizure Smart" environments, where recognition is swift, response is effective, and inclusion is paramount. The NASN 2026 Conference provided an unparalleled platform to disseminate this critical mission, engaging directly with the dedicated professionals who serve as the primary healthcare providers within school systems.
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Main Facts
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A Unified Front for Student Health
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Epilepsy Alliance America, a national coalition dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by epilepsy, marked a significant milestone with its active participation in the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) 2026 Conference. This premier event, hosted in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada, drew thousands of school nurses, educators, and healthcare professionals committed to enhancing the health and safety of students across the United States. EAA’s involvement was not merely observational but deeply engaged, positioning the organization at the forefront of discussions surrounding chronic health conditions in the school setting, with a particular emphasis on epilepsy.
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The primary objective for EAA at the conference was clear: to empower school nurses with the knowledge, tools, and confidence required to effectively support students with epilepsy. Recognizing school nurses as indispensable first responders and ongoing care coordinators, Epilepsy Alliance America focused on providing practical, actionable resources designed to bridge gaps in understanding and enhance preparedness. The conference, therefore, represented a strategic convergence of EAA’s mission with NASN’s commitment to professional development and student welfare, fostering a collaborative atmosphere essential for systemic change.
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Key Initiatives at the Conference
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As a prominent exhibitor, Epilepsy Alliance America hosted a dynamic and informative booth within the conference’s bustling exhibit hall. This central hub served as a beacon for nurses seeking expertise and practical solutions for managing epilepsy in schools. The resources provided were meticulously curated to address critical areas of need:
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- Seizure Recognition and Response: Comprehensive guides and training materials were offered to help nurses and school staff accurately identify different types of seizures and implement appropriate, timely first aid. This included distinguishing between generalized and focal seizures, understanding seizure triggers, and knowing when to call for emergency medical assistance.
- Seizure Action Plans (SAPs): Emphasis was placed on the importance of individualized Seizure Action Plans, which are vital for guiding school personnel in managing a student’s epilepsy. EAA provided templates, best practices for development, and guidance on how to collaborate with parents and healthcare providers to create effective, student-specific plans. These plans ensure consistent care and minimize the risk of complications during a seizure.
- Educational Tools and Resources: A wide array of supplementary materials was made available, including brochures, online modules, and links to further training opportunities. These tools are designed to support students, families, and school staff in creating a more inclusive and understanding environment. Topics ranged from debunking common myths about epilepsy to fostering peer support and advocating for accommodations.
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Beyond the exhibit booth, Epilepsy Alliance America’s engagement extended to the conference’s educational sessions. The agenda featured several presentations directly related to epilepsy and seizure management, highlighting the growing recognition of this condition within school health. A notable presentation was led by Jason Raether, a respected school nurse and passionate epilepsy advocate. His session provided practical insights and shared experiences, resonating deeply with attendees grappling with similar challenges in their own school districts.
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A defining highlight of the conference was the invaluable opportunity for EAA representatives to connect directly with school nurses. These face-to-face interactions, both at the exhibit booth and during various networking events, allowed for genuine dialogue, the sharing of real-world experiences, and the forging of crucial partnerships. Through these conversations, Epilepsy Alliance America effectively communicated its extensive range of training programs, educational resources, and robust advocacy initiatives, all geared towards fostering safer, more informed, and truly inclusive school environments for students living with epilepsy.
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Chronology
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Pre-Conference Preparations: Setting the Stage
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The decision for Epilepsy Alliance America to participate in the NASN 2026 Conference was a strategic one, born from a deep understanding of the critical role school nurses play in the daily lives of students with epilepsy. Planning for such a significant event commenced months in advance, involving extensive internal discussions and coordination. EAA recognized that the NASN conference was not merely an exhibition opportunity but a vital touchpoint for disseminating best practices, building relationships, and directly addressing the needs of those on the front lines of student healthcare.
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Preparations included the meticulous design of the exhibit booth to be both inviting and informative, ensuring that key messages and resources were immediately accessible. Content development for handouts, digital resources, and interactive displays was a collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise of EAA’s diverse network of medical professionals, educators, and advocates. The selection of the EAA team attending the conference was also deliberate, ensuring a mix of leadership, clinical knowledge, and advocacy experience to maximize engagement and impact. Anticipation within EAA was high, recognizing the potential to significantly amplify their reach and influence among a highly receptive audience of dedicated healthcare professionals.
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The Conference Unfolds: Engagement and Education
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Upon arrival at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, the EAA team efficiently set up their exhibit, transforming it into a welcoming and professional space. As the conference officially opened, the energy within the exhibit hall was palpable, with school nurses eager to explore new resources and connect with specialized organizations. From the outset, the Epilepsy Alliance America booth attracted a steady stream of visitors. Nurses from diverse districts—urban, rural, and suburban—approached with a range of questions, from basic seizure first aid protocols to complex management strategies for students with drug-resistant epilepsy.
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Throughout the multi-day conference, the EAA booth became a hub of activity. Representatives engaged in countless one-on-one conversations, providing personalized guidance and addressing specific challenges faced by nurses in their respective schools. A recurring theme was the expressed need for standardized, easy-to-implement resources, and EAA’s offerings were consistently met with appreciation. Many nurses shared anecdotes of students they supported, highlighting the profound impact of timely and informed care. The EAA team collected valuable feedback, noting common concerns and areas where further resource development could be beneficial.
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Beyond the booth, EAA representatives actively participated in various conference sessions. A particular highlight was the presentation led by Jason Raether, a school nurse and epilepsy advocate. His session, "Empowering School Nurses: Practical Strategies for Seizure Management," delved into critical topics such as recognizing subtle seizure presentations, developing effective communication channels between school and home, and navigating medication administration challenges. Raether’s presentation, drawing from his personal and professional experience, resonated deeply, offering actionable insights and fostering a sense of community among attendees.
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Networking events, from informal coffee breaks to structured receptions, provided additional avenues for collaboration. EAA leadership engaged with representatives from other health organizations, educational associations, and potential partners, exploring opportunities for future joint initiatives. These interactions were crucial for building a broader coalition dedicated to student health and for positioning epilepsy care as an integral component of comprehensive school health services.
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Post-Conference Momentum: Sustaining the Impact
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As the NASN 2026 Conference drew to a close, the EAA team departed Las Vegas not only with a sense of accomplishment but also with a renewed vigor and a clear path forward. Immediate post-conference actions included a comprehensive internal debrief, where feedback from nurses was meticulously reviewed and insights were cataloged. Data collected from booth interactions, including contact information for interested nurses and requests for specific resources, became the foundation for targeted follow-up communications.
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Epilepsy Alliance America is now leveraging the connections made and the insights gained to refine existing programs and develop new initiatives. The expressed needs of school nurses will directly inform future resource creation, ensuring that EAA’s offerings remain relevant, practical, and impactful. The conference served as a powerful catalyst, reinforcing the organization’s strategic direction and commitment to expanding its reach. Future plans include ongoing collaboration with NASN, exploring joint training programs, and continuing to advocate for policies that mandate epilepsy education and preparedness in all schools nationwide. The momentum generated in Las Vegas is expected to fuel EAA’s efforts for months and years to come, solidifying its role as a leading advocate for students with epilepsy.
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Supporting Data
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The Scope of Epilepsy in Schools
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Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions globally, affecting approximately 3.4 million people in the United States, with an estimated 470,000 children and adolescents under 18 living with the condition. This translates to roughly 1 in every 100 children in school having epilepsy. For many of these students, seizures are an unpredictable and often disruptive part of their daily lives, posing significant challenges within the school environment. The impact extends beyond the immediate physical effects of a seizure; it can lead to missed school days, difficulties with academic performance, social isolation, and heightened anxiety for both the student and their family.
Without adequate support and understanding, students with epilepsy are at a higher risk of experiencing bullying, being misunderstood by peers and teachers, and feeling marginalized. They may struggle with medication adherence, side effects, and the psychological burden of living with a chronic, often stigmatized condition. The presence of trained and knowledgeable school personnel, particularly school nurses, is therefore not just beneficial but absolutely critical for these students’ safety, educational attainment, and overall well-being.
The Critical Role of School Nurses
School nurses are often the primary healthcare providers within the educational setting, managing a diverse range of student health needs, from acute injuries to chronic conditions. For students with epilepsy, the school nurse assumes a multifaceted role:
- First Responder: They are typically the first point of contact during a seizure event, responsible for assessing the situation, providing immediate first aid, and determining if emergency medical services are required.
- Care Coordinator: School nurses work closely with students, families, physicians, and other school staff to develop and implement individualized Seizure Action Plans (SAPs), ensuring that medication schedules are followed, and necessary accommodations are in place.
- Educator and Advocate: They educate teachers, staff, and even peers about epilepsy, dispelling myths and fostering a supportive environment. They also advocate for policies and resources that promote seizure safety and inclusion.
Despite their critical responsibilities, many school nurses face significant challenges, including limited access to specialized training in epilepsy, insufficient resources, and high student-to-nurse ratios. A 2018 study by the Epilepsy Foundation found that a significant percentage of school nurses felt they needed more training on seizure first aid and management. Epilepsy Alliance America’s resources directly address these challenges by providing evidence-based, practical tools that enhance nurses’ confidence and competence. Standardized seizure action plans, for instance, reduce variability in care and ensure that all necessary information is readily available, while comprehensive training modules equip nurses with the latest knowledge in epilepsy care. This proactive approach not only improves immediate seizure response but also contributes to a more consistent and effective long-term management strategy.
Impact of Training and Resources
The benefits of effective epilepsy training and readily available resources in schools are profound and far-reaching. Studies have consistently shown that timely and appropriate seizure first aid can significantly reduce the risk of injury during a seizure and improve post-seizure recovery. When school nurses and staff are well-trained:
- Improved Safety: Students are less likely to experience injuries during seizures due to proper first aid techniques and a clear understanding of when to intervene or seek emergency care.
- Reduced Anxiety: Both students and their families report lower levels of anxiety when they know that school staff are prepared and knowledgeable about epilepsy. This creates a more secure and trusting environment.
- Enhanced Educational Outcomes: Fewer seizure-related incidents and better overall management lead to fewer missed school days and improved ability to focus on academics. When students feel safe and supported, their engagement and performance in school are positively impacted.
- Greater Inclusion: Increased awareness and understanding among school staff and peers foster a more inclusive environment, reducing stigma and promoting social integration for students with epilepsy.
Epilepsy Alliance America’s commitment to providing "Seizure Smart Schools" initiatives aims to achieve these outcomes on a national scale. By offering comprehensive training programs—ranging from basic seizure first aid to advanced care coordination—EAA empowers school nurses to become champions for students with epilepsy. The organization’s role as a national alliance is crucial in standardizing care, ensuring that best practices are shared and implemented consistently across different states and school districts, ultimately elevating the quality of life and educational experience for all students living with epilepsy.
Official Responses
Voices from Epilepsy Alliance America
The participation in the NASN 2026 Conference elicited strong positive feedback from Epilepsy Alliance America’s leadership, underscoring the strategic importance of engaging with school health professionals.
Lisa Gallipoli, Executive Director of Epilepsy Alliance America, articulated the organization’s enthusiasm and strategic vision: "Our presence at the NASN 2026 Conference was an absolute imperative for Epilepsy Alliance America. It provided an unparalleled opportunity to connect directly with the dedicated school nurses who are on the front lines, ensuring the safety and well-being of students with epilepsy every single day. The conversations we had were incredibly insightful, reaffirming the immense value of our resources and highlighting the critical need for ongoing education and support. Our primary takeaway is the undeniable hunger for practical, accessible tools among these professionals. Empowering school nurses is not just a goal for us; it’s a fundamental pillar of our mission to create truly seizure-smart and inclusive school environments nationwide."
Amanda Mitchell, a vital Board Member of Epilepsy Alliance America and the Executive Director of founding member organization Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, shared her perspective on the conference’s impact, particularly from a regional standpoint: "Being able to represent both the national Alliance and our efforts in Louisiana at NASN was incredibly rewarding. It showcased the power of our collaborative model. Many nurses approached our booth, expressing a sense of relief to find a national organization dedicated to epilepsy support in schools. They often shared how isolated they felt in their own districts regarding epilepsy care. This conference reinforced that a strong national alliance strengthens local efforts exponentially, providing a collective voice and a shared repository of resources that individual states might struggle to develop alone. The direct feedback we received will undoubtedly help us tailor our programs to better serve both national and local needs."
Julie Lazzara, PhD, co-founder of Landon’s Legacy Foundation, a new and impactful member organization of the Alliance, brought a unique and deeply personal perspective to the conference. Her foundation was established in memory of her son, Landon, who tragically passed away from SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy). Dr. Lazzara emphasized the profound value of EAA’s collaborative approach: "For Landon’s Legacy Foundation, joining Epilepsy Alliance America and participating in this conference represents a monumental step forward in honoring Landon’s memory. My son’s story underscores the devastating consequences when epilepsy is not fully understood or properly managed. At the NASN conference, I witnessed firsthand the immense dedication of school nurses, and the deep need for the resources EAA provides. Being part of this Alliance allows us to amplify Landon’s story, turning our grief into action by ensuring that no other child faces similar risks due to a lack of awareness or preparedness in schools. The synergy within the Alliance, and the opportunity to share our mission with these vital healthcare professionals, is truly transformative."
Perspectives from the National Association of School Nurses
While no direct quotes from NASN officials were provided, the organization’s consistent efforts to host such comprehensive conferences and invite a diverse array of exhibitors speak volumes about their commitment to student health. The National Association of School Nurses consistently champions a holistic approach to student wellness, recognizing that chronic conditions like epilepsy require specialized attention and resources.
A statement reflective of NASN’s stance would emphasize the organization’s role in facilitating professional development and fostering collaborative partnerships. "The National Association of School Nurses is dedicated to equipping our members with the most current knowledge and resources to address the complex health needs of today’s students," a NASN spokesperson might convey. "Conferences like NASN 2026 are essential platforms for achieving this, bringing together experts and organizations like Epilepsy Alliance America. Their invaluable presence enriches the conference experience, providing our school nurses with direct access to specialized training and support that is critical for managing chronic conditions such as epilepsy effectively. We believe that robust collaborations with disease-specific advocacy groups are fundamental to ensuring every student receives the care and support they deserve."
School Nurses Speak Out (General Feedback/Synthesized)
The overwhelming sentiment from school nurses visiting the Epilepsy Alliance America booth was one of gratitude and a palpable sense of relief. Many nurses, often operating as the sole healthcare provider in their schools, expressed how invaluable it was to have a dedicated resource for epilepsy.
"A recurring theme in our conversations," noted an EAA representative, "was the expressed need for clarity on seizure protocols and the desire for more consistent, easy-to-understand educational materials for teachers and staff. Nurses told us they often feel isolated in managing complex health conditions like epilepsy, and they deeply appreciated having practical tools like our Seizure Action Plan templates readily available." Another common feedback point centered on the practical applicability of EAA’s training programs. "Many nurses specifically highlighted how our training modules provided them with the confidence they needed to act decisively during a seizure," an EAA team member shared. "They were eager to take these resources back to their schools and implement them immediately, emphasizing the urgent need for this type of specialized support." The appreciation for EAA’s practical tools and readily available, evidence-based information was a consistent and powerful affirmation of the organization’s efforts.
Implications
Elevating Standards of Care in Schools
Epilepsy Alliance America’s robust engagement at the NASN 2026 Conference carries significant implications for elevating the standards of epilepsy care within educational settings across the nation. By directly engaging with school nurses—the primary caregivers for students with chronic health conditions—EAA is laying the groundwork for more standardized, effective, and responsive epilepsy management protocols. The distribution of comprehensive resources, from seizure recognition guides to individualized Seizure Action Plan templates, will undoubtedly lead to a more consistent application of best practices, reducing variability in care from one school district to another.
The long-term impact of these efforts will be seen in improved school health policies. As more nurses become "Seizure Smart" and advocate for EAA’s recommended protocols, schools will be better equipped to integrate these guidelines into their daily operations. This means not only safer immediate responses during a seizure but also proactive measures like comprehensive staff training, accessible emergency medication, and clear communication channels between home, school, and healthcare providers. Ultimately, this will create a ripple effect, leading to better-trained school personnel, enhanced safety for students with epilepsy, and improved educational outcomes.
Fostering a More Inclusive Educational Environment
Beyond immediate safety, the work spearheaded by Epilepsy Alliance America has profound implications for fostering truly inclusive educational environments. A school where staff are knowledgeable about epilepsy, and where students with the condition feel understood and supported, is a school that champions inclusion. Lack of awareness often leads to stigma, misunderstanding, and even fear, which can isolate students with epilepsy from their peers and negatively impact their self-esteem and mental well-being.
EAA’s resources and advocacy initiatives aim to dismantle these barriers. By educating the entire school community—from administrators and teachers to bus drivers and cafeteria staff—about epilepsy, the organization helps to normalize the condition and reduce the associated stigma. When peers understand what epilepsy is and how to help during a seizure, it fosters empathy and support, leading to better social integration for students with epilepsy. This holistic approach ensures that students not only feel physically safe but also emotionally secure and valued, enabling them to fully participate in all aspects of school life.
The Future of Epilepsy Care in Education
Looking ahead, the NASN 2026 Conference marks a pivotal moment for Epilepsy Alliance America, solidifying its role as a leading advocate for epilepsy care in education. The organization’s next steps will involve capitalizing on the momentum generated in Las Vegas through several key initiatives:
- Continued Collaboration with NASN: EAA plans to strengthen its partnership with the National Association of School Nurses, exploring opportunities for joint webinars, co-developed resources, and collaborative advocacy efforts to influence national school health policies.
- Expansion of Training Programs: Based on feedback from school nurses, EAA will refine and expand its online and in-person training programs, making them even more accessible and tailored to the evolving needs of school communities. This includes developing specialized modules for different school personnel roles.
- Resource Dissemination and Development: The organization will continue to develop and disseminate evidence-based resources, utilizing digital platforms to reach a broader audience and ensuring that materials are updated with the latest research and best practices.
- Heightened Advocacy: Epilepsy Alliance America will intensify its advocacy efforts at both state and federal levels, championing legislation that mandates epilepsy education for school staff, promotes the widespread adoption of Seizure Action Plans, and ensures adequate resources for school nurses.
The overarching vision remains clear: every student with epilepsy, regardless of their school or zip code, deserves a safe, supportive, and understanding educational environment. Epilepsy Alliance America’s commitment, reinforced by the success of its participation in the NASN 2026 Conference, underscores a future where epilepsy is no longer a barrier to a child’s full potential in school, but rather a condition managed with competence, compassion, and care. The call to action extends to schools, parents, and communities alike: engage with EAA’s mission, embrace the resources, and together, create a more inclusive and seizure-smart future for all students.
