Las Vegas, Nevada – [Date, e.g., October 28, 2026] – In a significant move to advance student health and safety nationwide, Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly concluded its impactful participation in the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) 2026 Conference. Held earlier this month at the iconic Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, the premier event served as a crucial platform for EAA to champion epilepsy awareness, provide vital educational resources, and forge stronger connections with the dedicated school nurses who form the frontline of student well-being. The conference, a convergence of healthcare professionals from across the country, focused on sharing best practices and fortifying the health infrastructure within educational settings, making EAA’s presence indispensable for students living with epilepsy.
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Epilepsy, a neurological condition affecting millions globally, presents unique challenges within the school environment. The critical need for immediate and informed response to seizures, coupled with ongoing support for students, underscores the indispensable role of school nurses. Epilepsy Alliance America’s proactive engagement at NASN 2026 aimed to bridge knowledge gaps, empower these essential healthcare providers, and ensure that every student with epilepsy has the opportunity to learn and thrive in a safe and inclusive setting. The Alliance’s efforts at the conference represent a strategic commitment to fostering environments where seizure recognition and response are second nature, and where comprehensive care plans are standard practice.
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Main Facts: A Unified Front for Student Health
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Epilepsy Alliance America, a coalition dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with epilepsy, significantly amplified its mission by serving as a prominent exhibitor at the NASN 2026 Conference. This strategic participation allowed EAA to directly engage with hundreds of school nurses, who are often the first responders and primary caregivers for students experiencing health crises, including seizures, within school walls. The conference, an annual hallmark event for the National Association of School Nurses, convenes professionals committed to advancing the practice of school nursing and promoting the health and safety of children and adolescents. Its 2026 iteration in Las Vegas provided an expansive forum for collaboration, learning, and the dissemination of critical health information.
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At its core, EAA’s presence was driven by the imperative to ensure that school nurses are equipped with the most current and effective tools for managing epilepsy in schools. This encompassed providing comprehensive resources on critical topics such as accurate seizure recognition, appropriate emergency response protocols, and the development and implementation of individualized Seizure Action Plans (SAPs). These plans are vital documents that outline a student’s specific seizure type, medication regimen, and emergency procedures, empowering school staff to act decisively and appropriately during a seizure event. Furthermore, EAA distributed a wealth of educational materials designed to foster a greater understanding of epilepsy among educators, peers, and the wider school community, promoting an environment of empathy and inclusion.
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A highlight of the conference for EAA was the opportunity for its leadership to connect directly with the dedicated professionals whose daily work profoundly impacts students with epilepsy. These interactions at the exhibit booth and during various networking events facilitated invaluable dialogues, enabling EAA to share insights into its extensive training programs, advocacy initiatives, and the broader vision of creating safer and more inclusive school environments across the nation. The Alliance’s representation by key figures, including Executive Director Lisa Gallipoli, Board member Amanda Mitchell (also Executive Director of founding member Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana), and Dr. Julie Lazzara, co-founder of the new member organization Landon’s Legacy Foundation, underscored the collective expertise and passionate commitment driving EAA’s mission. Their combined experience offered diverse perspectives, from national strategic oversight to grassroots advocacy and personal journeys, enriching every interaction and reinforcing the Alliance’s holistic approach to epilepsy support.
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Chronology: From Preparation to Lasting Impact
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Pre-Conference Preparations: Laying the Groundwork for Engagement
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Epilepsy Alliance America’s journey to NASN 2026 began months in advance, meticulously planned to maximize its impact. Recognizing the NASN conference as an unparalleled opportunity to reach a critical demographic—school nurses—EAA’s team engaged in extensive strategic planning. This involved developing targeted educational materials, ensuring their scientific accuracy and practical applicability for school settings. Resources on seizure first aid, the nuances of different seizure types, and customizable Seizure Action Plan templates were refined. The exhibition booth itself was designed to be both inviting and informative, featuring interactive displays and clear messaging about EAA’s mission and offerings.
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The selection of representatives was also a deliberate process, aiming to present a diverse and authoritative voice for the Alliance. Lisa Gallipoli, with her national leadership perspective, was essential for articulating EAA’s overarching strategy. Amanda Mitchell brought invaluable insights from a founding member organization, Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, highlighting the importance of state-level initiatives and the practical challenges faced by local communities. Dr. Julie Lazzara, representing Landon’s Legacy Foundation, infused the team with the powerful perspective of lived experience and the profound impact of grassroots advocacy born from personal tragedy, making her presence particularly resonant. Coordination with NASN organizers ensured EAA’s presence was integrated smoothly into the conference schedule, including the crucial slot for epilepsy-focused sessions.
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During the Conference: Connecting, Educating, and Inspiring
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The NASN 2026 Conference officially commenced, and Epilepsy Alliance America’s booth quickly became a focal point for attendees seeking specialized knowledge on epilepsy management. From the opening of the exhibit hall, EAA’s representatives engaged in continuous dialogue with school nurses, many of whom shared personal anecdotes about managing students with epilepsy in their schools, or expressed a keen desire to enhance their knowledge and skills. The booth featured an array of resources, from concise informational brochures and detailed guidelines on seizure first aid to digital tools accessible via QR codes, allowing nurses to download critical information directly to their devices. There were also sign-up sheets for EAA’s certified Seizure First Aid training programs, demonstrating a direct pathway for nurses to further their professional development.
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A significant event during the conference was the presentation led by school nurse and epilepsy advocate Jason Raether. His session, "Navigating Epilepsy in Schools: A Nurse’s Guide to Comprehensive Support," drew a large audience, underscoring the high demand for expert guidance in this area. Raether’s presentation delved into practical strategies for creating epilepsy-friendly school environments, discussing not only emergency response but also the psychosocial aspects of living with epilepsy as a student. He emphasized the importance of fostering open communication between school staff, parents, and healthcare providers, and advocated for policies that support students’ academic and social integration. His insights, grounded in real-world experience, resonated deeply with attendees, sparking lively Q&A sessions and further discussions at the EAA booth.
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Throughout the conference, the EAA team actively participated in various networking events, extending their reach beyond the exhibit hall. These informal gatherings provided opportunities for deeper conversations, allowing Lisa Gallipoli, Amanda Mitchell, and Dr. Julie Lazzara to share EAA’s vision and listen to the concerns and triumphs of school nurses from diverse geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds. Many nurses expressed relief at finding a dedicated resource like EAA, highlighting the fragmented nature of epilepsy support they often encountered. The direct feedback gathered from these interactions was invaluable, offering EAA a clearer understanding of the immediate needs and systemic challenges facing school nurses today. These exchanges also laid the groundwork for potential collaborations, with several nurses expressing interest in bringing EAA’s training programs to their school districts.
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Post-Conference Follow-up: Sustaining Momentum
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In the immediate aftermath of NASN 2026, Epilepsy Alliance America initiated a robust follow-up strategy. The contact information collected from hundreds of interested school nurses was meticulously organized, forming the basis for ongoing communication. EAA dispatched personalized emails, providing links to requested resources, information on upcoming training sessions, and details about how nurses could become more involved with the Alliance’s advocacy efforts. The feedback forms collected at the booth provided critical data, informing EAA about the most sought-after resources and areas where further educational development is needed.
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The insights gained from the conference interactions are now being integrated into EAA’s program development and advocacy strategies. The consistent message from school nurses about the need for standardized Seizure Action Plans and accessible training reinforced EAA’s current priorities and helped to refine future initiatives. Furthermore, the connections made with NASN leadership and individual school nurses are expected to blossom into enduring partnerships, fostering a collaborative network dedicated to student well-being. EAA plans to leverage these relationships to advocate for broader policy changes, such as mandatory seizure first aid training for all school personnel, building on the momentum generated at NASN 2026.
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Supporting Data: The Critical Need for Epilepsy Awareness in Schools
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Prevalence of Epilepsy and its Impact on Students
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Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions globally, affecting approximately 3.4 million people in the United States, including about 470,000 children and adolescents. This means that in any given school, it is highly probable that at least one student lives with epilepsy. The condition manifests as recurrent, unprovoked seizures, which can vary widely in presentation, from subtle staring spells to full-body convulsions. These unpredictable events can pose significant safety risks and disrupt learning, leading to academic challenges, social stigma, and emotional distress for affected students.
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Students with epilepsy often face unique hurdles in school. Beyond the immediate danger of seizures, they may experience side effects from medication, cognitive difficulties, and anxiety about having a seizure in front of peers. A lack of understanding among school staff can exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to inappropriate responses during a seizure, bullying, or unnecessary restrictions on participation in school activities. Studies indicate that students with epilepsy are at a higher risk of being bullied and often report feeling isolated. Therefore, comprehensive support systems, spearheaded by knowledgeable school nurses, are not merely beneficial but essential for their holistic development.
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The Indispensable Role of Seizure First Aid Training and Action Plans
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Proper seizure first aid is a life-saving skill. In many instances, an incorrectly managed seizure can lead to injury, prolonged recovery, or even status epilepticus, a medical emergency. The American Academy of Neurology and the Epilepsy Foundation both emphasize the importance of training school personnel in basic seizure recognition and response. Key principles include staying with the person, timing the seizure, ensuring a safe environment by removing objects, and calling for emergency medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if it’s the person’s first seizure.
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Seizure Action Plans (SAPs) are the cornerstone of proactive epilepsy management in schools. These individualized documents, developed in collaboration with parents and healthcare providers, provide clear, step-by-step instructions for managing a student’s specific seizure type. They typically include details about the student’s medication, emergency contact information, and when to administer rescue medication or call 911. Research consistently shows that schools with well-implemented SAPs experience fewer seizure-related incidents and better outcomes for students. EAA’s emphasis on SAPs at NASN 2026 directly addresses a critical need for standardized and accessible planning tools.
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NASN’s Broad Reach and Epilepsy Alliance America’s Comprehensive Impact
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The National Association of School Nurses represents over 18,000 school nurses nationwide, making its annual conference a powerful nexus for disseminating critical health information. The ripple effect of educating this professional group is profound: each trained school nurse can, in turn, educate dozens, if not hundreds, of teachers, administrators, and support staff within their respective schools. This exponential reach multiplies the impact of EAA’s efforts, transforming individual knowledge into systemic change across school districts.
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Epilepsy Alliance America, through its network of founding and member organizations, offers a comprehensive suite of resources and programs. These include certified Seizure First Aid training, educational workshops for families and educators, public awareness campaigns, and robust advocacy initiatives aimed at passing "Seizure Safe Schools" legislation in states across the country. This legislation typically mandates seizure first aid training for school personnel and requires the implementation of individualized Seizure Action Plans. By uniting diverse epilepsy organizations under one banner, EAA amplifies its voice and broadens its capacity to serve the epilepsy community, ensuring a coordinated and impactful approach to improving lives.
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Official Responses: Voices from the Frontlines of Advocacy
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Statements from Epilepsy Alliance America Leadership
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Lisa Gallipoli, Executive Director of Epilepsy Alliance America, reflected on the conference’s profound success: "Our participation at NASN 2026 was not just about exhibiting; it was about forging vital human connections. School nurses are truly unsung heroes, often the first line of defense for students experiencing health crises. The enthusiasm and commitment we witnessed were incredibly inspiring. We leave Las Vegas more convinced than ever that by empowering these dedicated professionals with knowledge and resources, we are directly contributing to safer, more inclusive school environments for every child with epilepsy. This conference has further solidified our commitment to expanding our training programs and advocacy efforts across all 50 states."
Amanda Mitchell, Board member of Epilepsy Alliance America and Executive Director of Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, emphasized the value of direct engagement: "As a representative of a founding member organization, I see firsthand the challenges and triumphs at the state level. The conversations with school nurses from various states underscored the universal need for consistent epilepsy education and support. It’s incredibly powerful to connect directly with those who are implementing these strategies daily. The NASN conference provided an unparalleled opportunity to understand their needs, share our best practices, and collaborate on solutions that resonate at both the local and national levels. This synergy is exactly what Epilepsy Alliance America was founded to achieve."
Dr. Julie Lazzara, co-founder of Landon’s Legacy Foundation and a new member organization of the Alliance, shared her deeply personal perspective: "My journey into epilepsy advocacy began with a profound personal loss, and seeing the dedication of these school nurses fills me with hope. Their willingness to learn and implement robust seizure management strategies is a testament to their commitment to student safety. The Alliance offers a powerful platform for organizations like Landon’s Legacy to extend our reach and impact, ensuring that no child’s life is tragically impacted due to a lack of awareness or preparedness. The energy at NASN 2026 reaffirmed the critical importance of our collective work."
Statements from the National Association of School Nurses (Hypothetical)
Dr. Kelly Johnson, President of the National Association of School Nurses (NASN), commented on the collaborative spirit: "The NASN 2026 Conference thrives on the expertise and partnership of organizations like Epilepsy Alliance America. Their presence as an exhibitor and their contribution to our educational sessions provided invaluable resources for our members. Epilepsy management in schools is a complex area, and having direct access to EAA’s specialized knowledge and training programs significantly enhances the capabilities of our school nurses. We are deeply appreciative of their commitment to supporting our mission of promoting the health and well-being of all students."
Testimonials from School Nurses (Hypothetical)
"I’ve been a school nurse for fifteen years, and the resources from Epilepsy Alliance America are a game-changer," shared Sarah Chen, a school nurse from Arizona. "Their Seizure Action Plan template is so comprehensive, and the training materials are incredibly clear. It’s comforting to know there’s such a dedicated organization backing us up."
Mark Ramirez, a school nurse from Michigan, added, "Jason Raether’s session was phenomenal. It really brought to light the practical steps we can take to create a truly inclusive environment for students with epilepsy. I’m definitely taking back a lot of actionable strategies to my district, and I’ve already signed up for EAA’s next online training."
Implications: Paving the Way for a Seizure-Safe Future
Enhanced Student Safety and Well-being Across Schools
The extensive engagement by Epilepsy Alliance America at the NASN 2026 Conference carries profound implications for the safety and well-being of students with epilepsy nationwide. By directly equipping school nurses with advanced knowledge, practical tools, and ongoing support, EAA is laying the groundwork for a significant reduction in seizure-related incidents and injuries within school environments. Enhanced seizure recognition and prompt, appropriate response can mitigate the severity of seizures, reduce the need for emergency medical services, and ultimately save lives. Moreover, a more informed school staff can help alleviate the anxiety often experienced by students with epilepsy and their families, fostering a more secure and supportive educational experience. This proactive approach ensures that students can focus on their learning and social development without the added burden of an inadequately prepared environment.
Beyond immediate safety, the emphasis on comprehensive Seizure Action Plans and inclusive educational tools promotes a holistic approach to student well-being. When school personnel understand epilepsy, they are better positioned to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. This includes making necessary accommodations, addressing potential bullying, and fostering a classroom culture where differences are understood and respected. The ripple effect of a single, well-informed school nurse can transform an entire school’s approach to chronic health conditions, creating a truly inclusive learning community for all students.
Strengthened Partnerships and Broader Advocacy
EAA’s participation at NASN 2026 has significantly strengthened existing partnerships and forged new alliances that will be crucial for future advocacy efforts. The direct dialogue with school nurses provides invaluable ground-level insights that can inform EAA’s legislative initiatives, particularly those aimed at advancing "Seizure Safe Schools" legislation. By working collaboratively with NASN and individual school districts, EAA can advocate for policies that mandate essential training and resources, ensuring a standardized level of care for students with epilepsy across different states and regions. These partnerships also facilitate the sharing of best practices and the development of joint educational campaigns, amplifying the message of epilepsy awareness to a wider audience.
The Alliance’s role as a unifying force for epilepsy organizations further enhances its advocacy power. By bringing together founding members like Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana and new members such as Landon’s Legacy Foundation, EAA leverages diverse expertise and passion. This collective voice is more impactful in lobbying for policy changes, securing funding for research and support programs, and challenging misconceptions about epilepsy. The connections made at NASN 2026 will undoubtedly contribute to a more coordinated and effective national advocacy movement for epilepsy.
Future Directions for Epilepsy Alliance America
The insights and connections gained from the NASN 2026 Conference will be instrumental in shaping Epilepsy Alliance America’s strategic roadmap for the coming years. The feedback from school nurses will directly inform the development of new educational materials, refine existing training programs, and identify underserved areas requiring targeted intervention. EAA plans to leverage this momentum to expand its reach, aiming to deliver its certified Seizure First Aid training to an even broader spectrum of school personnel, including teachers, bus drivers, and administrative staff.
Furthermore, the conference highlighted the ongoing need for resources that address the evolving landscape of epilepsy management, including advancements in treatment and technology. EAA will continue to integrate the latest research and best practices into its offerings, ensuring that school nurses and other educators have access to the most current information. The Alliance is also exploring opportunities for virtual training modules and online communities to foster continuous learning and peer support among school nurses dedicated to epilepsy care. The ultimate goal remains to empower every school in America to be a "Seizure Safe School," where every student with epilepsy can thrive without fear or hindrance.
Broader Public Health Impact
The efforts to enhance epilepsy awareness and management in schools extend far beyond the school gates, contributing to a broader public health impact. Children are powerful agents of change; by learning about epilepsy in a supportive school environment, they can help destigmatize the condition among their families and communities. Increased public understanding reduces prejudice, encourages empathy, and fosters a society where individuals with epilepsy are fully included and supported. This fundamental shift in public perception, cultivated through informed educational practices, is crucial for improving the quality of life for all individuals living with epilepsy. The ripple effect initiated by Epilepsy Alliance America’s proactive engagement at NASN 2026 is a significant step towards achieving this more compassionate and understanding world.
