LAS VEGAS, NV – [Month, Day], 2026 – 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 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This pivotal event served as a crucial platform, uniting dedicated school nurses from across the United States with the shared mission of advancing student health, safety, and well-being. Epilepsy Alliance America’s presence underscored its unwavering commitment to ensuring that students living with epilepsy receive the understanding, support, and immediate care necessary to thrive in educational environments.
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The conference, a biennial gathering of the nation’s leading experts in school health, provided an unparalleled opportunity for EAA to engage directly with the frontline healthcare providers who play an indispensable role in the daily lives of students. Through its robust exhibition and active participation in educational sessions, EAA disseminated vital information, fostered critical dialogues, and reinforced the importance of proactive seizure management strategies within schools. The Alliance’s efforts at NASN 2026 are expected to have a far-reaching impact, empowering school nurses with enhanced knowledge and resources to create safer, more inclusive learning spaces for hundreds of thousands of students nationwide who live with epilepsy.
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The Critical Nexus: Epilepsy Alliance America and School Health
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The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) 2026 Conference is a cornerstone event for school health professionals, offering a comprehensive agenda of educational sessions, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities. For Epilepsy Alliance America, this conference represented a strategic intersection of its mission with the daily realities faced by school nurses. The EAA’s participation was not merely an exhibition; it was a collaborative endeavor aimed at embedding a deeper understanding of epilepsy and seizure management into the fabric of school health protocols.
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As an exhibitor, Epilepsy Alliance America established a prominent booth within the conference’s bustling exhibit hall. This interactive hub served as a beacon for school nurses seeking to enhance their knowledge and resources concerning epilepsy. The EAA team provided a wealth of materials, including informative brochures, digital resources accessible via QR codes, and hands-on demonstrations. Key areas of focus included:
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- Seizure Recognition and Response: Comprehensive guides on identifying the varied manifestations of seizures, from generalized tonic-clonic episodes to more subtle absence or focal aware seizures. Crucially, the resources emphasized appropriate first aid protocols, detailing what to do and, equally important, what not to do during a seizure.
- Seizure Action Plans (SAPs): Detailed templates and guidance on developing individualized Seizure Action Plans. These plans are indispensable tools, outlining a student’s specific seizure type(s), triggers, emergency contacts, and step-by-step instructions for medication administration and post-seizure care. EAA advocated for the widespread adoption and consistent implementation of SAPs as a standard of care.
- Educational Tools for an Inclusive Environment: Beyond immediate response, EAA presented innovative educational tools designed to foster a supportive and inclusive school setting. These included classroom-friendly materials to educate peers, guidance for teachers on adapting lesson plans, and strategies for reducing stigma associated with epilepsy.
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The opportunity to connect directly with school nurses proved to be an invaluable highlight for the Epilepsy Alliance America team. These face-to-face interactions allowed for nuanced discussions, addressing specific challenges nurses encounter in diverse school environments. From urban districts to rural communities, the needs and resources vary, and EAA’s representatives engaged in personalized conversations to tailor their support and identify areas for further resource development.
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Chronology of Engagement: A Focused Presence
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Epilepsy Alliance America’s engagement at the NASN 2026 Conference was meticulously planned to maximize impact and outreach.
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Leading Up to the Conference: Weeks prior to the event, EAA initiated outreach to registered attendees, highlighting their presence and the resources they would offer. This proactive communication ensured that nurses with a specific interest in epilepsy care were aware of the Alliance’s booth and planned activities.
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Day 1: Setting the Stage and Initial Connections: Upon arrival at Caesars Palace, the EAA team meticulously set up their exhibition booth, strategically placing informative banners, resource displays, and interactive elements. The initial hours saw a steady stream of school nurses, eager to learn more about seizure first aid, medication management, and the legal frameworks supporting students with chronic health conditions. Conversations frequently revolved around the practicalities of implementing Seizure Action Plans and the challenges of educating staff and students about epilepsy.
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Throughout the Conference: Education, Advocacy, and Networking:nThe EAA booth became a vibrant hub of activity. Team members engaged in continuous dialogue with hundreds of school nurses, sharing insights into EAA’s training programs, which include both online modules and in-person workshops designed to equip school personnel with the confidence and competence to manage seizures effectively. Emphasis was placed on the "Seizure Smart Schools" initiative, a comprehensive program aimed at creating school-wide preparedness for epilepsy.
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Beyond the exhibit hall, the conference featured several sessions directly related to epilepsy and seizure management, reflecting the growing recognition of this neurological condition’s impact on student health. A particularly well-received presentation was led by Jason Raether, a highly respected school nurse and a dedicated epilepsy advocate. Raether’s session, "Navigating Epilepsy in the School Setting: Best Practices for Comprehensive Care," delved into practical strategies for developing individualized healthcare plans, fostering communication between school and home, and leveraging technology for medication reminders and seizure logging. His presentation also touched upon the psychosocial aspects of epilepsy, emphasizing the importance of supporting students’ mental health and ensuring their full participation in school activities. EAA representatives attended these sessions, further enriching their understanding of the nurses’ perspectives and identifying opportunities for future collaboration.
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Networking events, both formal and informal, provided additional avenues for EAA to connect with key stakeholders. These interactions facilitated the exchange of ideas, the identification of unmet needs, and the establishment of new partnerships crucial for expanding the reach of epilepsy education and advocacy initiatives. The Alliance’s focus was consistently on creating safer and more inclusive school environments, where a seizure is met with informed confidence, not fear or confusion.
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Supporting Data: The Urgent Need for Epilepsy Education in Schools
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The statistics surrounding epilepsy underscore the profound importance of Epilepsy Alliance America’s work and its engagement with school nurses. 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 means that, on average, at least one student with epilepsy is present in nearly every school in America.
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- Prevalence: Approximately 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime. For school nurses, this translates into a high probability of encountering students with epilepsy throughout their careers.
- Impact on Learning: Seizures can significantly disrupt a student’s learning process. Beyond the immediate event, post-seizure confusion, fatigue, and memory issues can affect academic performance. Unmanaged epilepsy can lead to missed school days, social isolation, and anxiety.
- The Critical Role of the School Nurse: School nurses are often the first responders to medical emergencies in the school setting. Their ability to quickly and accurately recognize a seizure, administer appropriate first aid, and activate a Seizure Action Plan can be life-saving and significantly reduce long-term complications.
- Knowledge Gaps: Despite the prevalence of epilepsy, a significant knowledge gap often exists among school staff, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel, regarding seizure recognition and response. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed intervention, inappropriate responses, and increased risk for students. Studies consistently show that school staff often feel unprepared to handle a seizure, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive training.
- Legislation and Best Practices: Several states have enacted "Seizure Safe Schools" legislation, mandating training for school personnel and the implementation of individualized Seizure Action Plans. EAA’s resources align with and actively promote these best practices, working towards a national standard of care. The Alliance provides data-driven evidence for the effectiveness of these measures in improving student outcomes and reducing emergency room visits.
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These compelling data points provide the foundational rationale for Epilepsy Alliance America’s strategic engagement at the NASN conference. By equipping school nurses with the latest information and resources, EAA directly contributes to mitigating these challenges and ensuring that every student with epilepsy has the opportunity to learn and thrive without undue risk or stigma.
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Official Responses: Voices of Dedication and Hope
The representatives from Epilepsy Alliance America expressed profound satisfaction with the outcomes of their participation, highlighting the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose.
Lisa Gallipoli, Executive Director of Epilepsy Alliance America, articulated the strategic significance of the event: "Our presence at the NASN 2026 Conference was absolutely vital. School nurses are the linchpins of student health, and their direct engagement is paramount to our mission. The conversations we had, the resources we shared, and the connections we forged here will ripple out to thousands of schools across the country. It’s about empowering these incredible professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to ensure every student with epilepsy is safe, understood, and able to fully participate in their education. We are not just providing information; we are building a network of informed advocates." Gallipoli emphasized the Alliance’s commitment to continuous partnership with NASN to integrate epilepsy education into core school health curricula.
Amanda Mitchell, a dedicated Board member of Epilepsy Alliance America and Executive Director of founding member organization, Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, offered a perspective rooted in grassroots experience. "Coming from a state-level organization, I see firsthand the daily challenges school nurses face. The opportunity to speak with them directly, to hear their stories, and to offer tangible solutions was incredibly rewarding," Mitchell stated. "Whether it’s clarifying seizure first aid or assisting with the implementation of a comprehensive Seizure Action Plan, these interactions translate directly into better care for students. The NASN conference truly embodies the power of collaboration – bringing together national expertise with local impact." Her insights highlighted the importance of tailoring resources to meet the diverse needs of different school districts.
A particularly poignant addition to the EAA team was Dr. Julie Lazzara, PhD, co-founder of Landon’s Legacy Foundation, a new member organization of the Alliance. Dr. Lazzara’s journey into epilepsy advocacy is deeply personal. "Landon’s Legacy Foundation was born out of a profound personal experience," Dr. Lazzara shared. "To be here, representing a new member of Epilepsy Alliance America and connecting with school nurses who are on the front lines, is incredibly moving. Every resource shared, every question answered, every nurse empowered brings us closer to a world where no child with epilepsy faces unnecessary risk or isolation in school. This conference is a testament to what we can achieve when we unite for a common, vital cause – ensuring the safety and future of our children." Her powerful testimony resonated deeply with many attendees, illustrating the personal stories behind the statistics.
Implications: A Safer, More Inclusive Future for Students
The Epilepsy Alliance America’s participation in the NASN 2026 Conference carries significant implications for the future of student health and safety, particularly for those living with epilepsy.
Enhanced Preparedness and Confidence: By providing comprehensive training and resources, EAA directly contributes to increasing the confidence and preparedness of school nurses to manage seizures effectively. This translates into quicker, more appropriate responses during an emergency, potentially preventing serious injuries or complications. The ripple effect extends to other school staff who will benefit from the nurses’ enhanced expertise.
Standardization of Care: The advocacy for and distribution of tools like Seizure Action Plans pushes towards a national standardization of care for students with epilepsy. This consistency ensures that regardless of where a student attends school, they are protected by clear, individualized protocols. This also facilitates smoother transitions for students moving between schools or districts.
Reduced Stigma and Increased Inclusion: A well-informed school environment is one where fear and misunderstanding surrounding epilepsy are significantly reduced. When teachers, peers, and administrators understand epilepsy, students are less likely to experience social isolation or discrimination. EAA’s educational tools foster empathy and inclusion, allowing students with epilepsy to participate more fully in academic, athletic, and social activities.
Policy Advocacy and Legislative Impact: The insights gathered and connections made at the NASN conference further strengthen EAA’s national advocacy efforts. The feedback from school nurses directly informs EAA’s strategies for promoting "Seizure Safe Schools" legislation and advocating for policies that support comprehensive epilepsy care in educational settings. This collaborative approach between healthcare providers and advocacy organizations is crucial for driving systemic change.
Strengthening the Alliance: For Epilepsy Alliance America, the conference solidified its role as a vital resource and partner for school health professionals. The integration of new member organizations like Landon’s Legacy Foundation, whose insights are often driven by personal experiences, enriches the Alliance’s perspective and amplifies its impact. The collective strength of the Alliance means a more robust and far-reaching advocacy network.
In conclusion, Epilepsy Alliance America’s impactful presence at the National Association of School Nurses 2026 Conference was more than just an exhibition; it was a powerful statement of commitment to student safety and inclusion. By empowering school nurses with essential knowledge, resources, and a network of support, EAA is actively shaping a future where every student with epilepsy can navigate their educational journey with confidence, dignity, and the assurance of informed care. The partnerships forged and the knowledge exchanged in Las Vegas will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for continued progress, ensuring that schools across the nation are truly safe and supportive environments for all students.
