Las Vegas, Nevada – Earlier this month, the Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) made a significant impact at the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) 2026 Conference, held at the iconic Caesars Palace. In a pivotal gathering that united school nurses from every corner of the nation, EAA championed its mission to foster safer, more inclusive educational environments for students living with epilepsy. The Alliance’s robust presence underscored the critical role of school nurses in managing this complex neurological condition and highlighted the urgent need for widespread education and support.
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The NASN 2026 Conference served as an essential forum for healthcare professionals dedicated to student well-being, focusing on the exchange of best practices, cutting-edge research, and collaborative strategies to strengthen the health and safety of students nationwide. Epilepsy Alliance America’s participation as a key exhibitor and contributor to educational sessions marked a strategic step in its ongoing advocacy efforts, directly engaging the frontline caregivers who profoundly influence the daily lives of children with epilepsy.
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Through its interactive exhibit booth, EAA provided a wealth of resources and information crucial for seizure recognition and response, the implementation of individualized seizure action plans, and a suite of educational tools specifically designed to empower school staff in supporting students with epilepsy. The conference agenda further amplified these messages with dedicated sessions on epilepsy and seizure management, notably featuring a compelling presentation led by school nurse and esteemed epilepsy advocate, Jason Raether. A resounding success of the event was the unparalleled opportunity for EAA representatives to forge direct connections with school nurses, acknowledging their indispensable role in ensuring the safety, academic success, and overall well-being of students with epilepsy. These vital interactions, spanning from engaging discussions at the exhibit booth to informal networking events, facilitated the widespread dissemination of EAA’s comprehensive training programs, educational initiatives, and advocacy campaigns, all geared towards cultivating more informed and inclusive school environments across the country.
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Epilepsy Alliance America’s delegation was spearheaded by Executive Director, Lisa Gallipoli, whose leadership guided the Alliance’s strategic engagement. She was joined by Board member Amanda Mitchell, who also serves as the Executive Director of the founding member organization, Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, bringing invaluable state-level insights and experience. Completing the formidable team was Dr. Julie Lazzara, PhD, co-founder of Landon’s Legacy Foundation, a newly affiliated member organization of the Alliance, whose personal dedication and academic expertise enriched the discussions and outreach efforts. Their combined presence underscored a unified commitment to advancing epilepsy care and understanding within the educational system.
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Chronology: A Strategic Engagement at the Forefront of School Health
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Epilepsy Alliance America’s journey to the NASN 2026 Conference was meticulously planned, reflecting a deep understanding of the critical intersection between school health and neurological conditions. The Alliance recognized the conference as an unparalleled platform to directly engage with the professionals who serve as the primary healthcare touchpoints for students during school hours.
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Pre-Conference Preparations: Laying the Groundwork for Impact
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Months before the doors opened at Caesars Palace, the EAA team embarked on extensive preparations. This involved a multi-faceted approach to maximize their impact. The communications and outreach teams meticulously crafted informative brochures, fact sheets, and digital resources, ensuring they were not only accurate but also easily digestible and actionable for busy school nurses. Special emphasis was placed on developing materials that clearly outlined seizure recognition techniques, step-by-step seizure first aid protocols, and templates for individualized Seizure Action Plans (SAPs), which are crucial for consistent care.
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The design of the exhibit booth itself was a strategic undertaking, aimed at creating an inviting and interactive space. It featured clear visuals, accessible information, and dedicated areas for one-on-one consultations. EAA also coordinated with NASN organizers to identify relevant sessions and opportunities for their representatives to contribute, culminating in the prominent inclusion of Jason Raether’s presentation. The leadership team, comprising Lisa Gallipoli, Amanda Mitchell, and Dr. Julie Lazzara, held several preparatory meetings, aligning on key messaging, delegate responsibilities, and specific outreach goals. Their collective expertise ensured that EAA’s presence would be cohesive, impactful, and representative of the Alliance’s diverse membership and mission.
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Day-by-Day Conference Activities: From Booth Engagement to Thought Leadership
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The conference officially commenced with a palpable energy, and Epilepsy Alliance America was at the heart of the action from day one.
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Arrival and Setup (Day 1): The EAA team arrived early, ensuring their booth was perfectly set up and stocked with all necessary materials. The initial hours were spent finalizing displays, testing multimedia presentations, and briefing the team on anticipated questions and discussion points. As the exhibit hall opened, the EAA booth quickly became a hub of activity, drawing school nurses eager for resources and guidance.
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Exhibit Hall Engagement (Days 1-3): Throughout the conference, the EAA booth was a magnet for school nurses seeking practical solutions and expert advice. Representatives engaged in countless conversations, addressing common concerns such as differentiating seizure types, managing complex cases, and advocating for necessary accommodations within school systems. The team provided comprehensive packets on seizure first aid, distributed sample Seizure Action Plans, and demonstrated the use of EAA’s online educational modules. Many nurses shared personal anecdotes about students they had supported, expressing gratitude for accessible resources that could enhance their capabilities and confidence in managing epilepsy. A significant portion of these interactions focused on demystifying epilepsy, dispelling common misconceptions, and reinforcing the message that with proper management, students with epilepsy can thrive academically and socially.
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Key Sessions and Presentations: The conference’s educational sessions provided a crucial platform for deeper engagement. Jason Raether, a dedicated school nurse and epilepsy advocate, delivered a highly anticipated presentation titled "Navigating Seizure Management in the School Setting: A Nurse’s Perspective." His session delved into practical strategies for creating seizure-safe schools, emphasizing the importance of individualized care plans, staff training, and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance. Raether’s presentation, drawing from his extensive experience, resonated deeply with attendees, offering actionable insights and inspiring collaborative approaches. His advocacy for proactive epilepsy management highlighted the profound impact a well-informed school nurse can have on a student’s life. Other sessions touched upon chronic disease management, emergency preparedness, and mental health support, all of which indirectly or directly intersected with the comprehensive care required for students with epilepsy.
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Networking Events: Beyond the structured sessions and exhibit hall, EAA representatives actively participated in various networking events. These informal gatherings proved invaluable for fostering deeper relationships, exchanging ideas, and understanding the diverse challenges faced by school nurses in different states and districts. These interactions often led to discussions about state-specific policies, funding challenges, and innovative local programs, providing EAA with crucial insights to refine its national advocacy strategies.
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Alliance Member Collaboration: The unified presence of Lisa Gallipoli, Amanda Mitchell, and Dr. Julie Lazzara was a testament to the strength of the Epilepsy Alliance America network. Lisa Gallipoli provided strategic oversight, ensuring EAA’s messaging was consistent and impactful. Amanda Mitchell, with her experience leading Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, offered a vital perspective on state-level implementation and the unique needs of local communities, drawing parallels and identifying commonalities across diverse regions. Dr. Julie Lazzara, representing Landon’s Legacy Foundation, brought a powerful blend of personal advocacy and scientific rigor. Her insights into the lived experience of families affected by epilepsy and her understanding of research advancements added a crucial dimension to EAA’s outreach, emphasizing the human element behind the statistics. Their collaborative efforts amplified EAA’s message and demonstrated the power of a united front in epilepsy advocacy.
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Post-Conference Follow-up: Sustaining the Momentum
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In the immediate aftermath of the conference, the EAA team initiated a robust follow-up protocol. This involved meticulously cataloging contacts made, responding to specific inquiries, and distributing additional requested resources. A comprehensive internal debriefing session was conducted to assess the effectiveness of their participation, identify areas for improvement, and integrate feedback from school nurses into future programs. The connections forged at NASN 2026 are expected to translate into new partnerships, expanded training initiatives, and a broader reach for EAA’s advocacy campaigns, solidifying the conference’s long-term impact.
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Supporting Data: The Imperative for Epilepsy Awareness in Schools
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The statistics surrounding epilepsy underscore the critical necessity of organizations like Epilepsy Alliance America and the vital role of school nurses. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions globally, and its prevalence among school-aged children presents unique challenges within the educational system.
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The Scope of Epilepsy in Schools: A National Concern
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 470,000 children in the United States under the age of 18 have active epilepsy. This means that in any given school, there is a high probability of having one or more students living with the condition. These students face a myriad of challenges beyond their medical condition, including potential academic disruptions, social stigma, bullying, and a constant concern for their safety.
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A lack of understanding about epilepsy among school staff can lead to delayed or inappropriate responses during a seizure, increased anxiety for students and their families, and even exclusion from certain school activities. Studies have shown that students with epilepsy are more likely to experience difficulties with attention, memory, and processing speed, necessitating tailored educational support and accommodations. Furthermore, the unpredictable nature of seizures can lead to missed school days, impacting academic progress and social integration. The presence of a knowledgeable and trained school nurse is often the single most important factor in mitigating these challenges, transforming a potentially daunting environment into a supportive one.
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Impact of Seizure Action Plans: A Blueprint for Safety
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Individualized Seizure Action Plans (SAPs) are not merely administrative documents; they are critical safety blueprints that empower school staff to respond effectively and consistently during a seizure event. A well-crafted SAP, developed in collaboration with parents, healthcare providers, and the school nurse, outlines a student’s specific seizure type, typical presentation, necessary first aid, emergency contact information, and medication protocols.
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Data consistently demonstrates that schools implementing comprehensive SAPs experience:
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- Reduced emergency calls: Staff are equipped to handle most seizures without needing to call 911, reserving emergency services for true medical crises.
- Improved safety outcomes: Proper first aid prevents injuries and ensures the student’s comfort and dignity during and after a seizure.
- Greater parental confidence: Families feel more secure knowing that their child’s needs are understood and addressed by trained professionals.
- Enhanced academic continuity: With proper management, students can return to learning more quickly, minimizing disruption to their education.
- Reduced anxiety: For both the student with epilepsy and their peers, a clear plan reduces fear and uncertainty surrounding seizures.
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Effectiveness of Training Programs: Empowering Educators
Epilepsy Alliance America’s training programs, such as "Seizure First Aid Certification" and "Living with Epilepsy in Schools," are designed to equip all school personnel – nurses, teachers, administrators, and support staff – with the knowledge and skills to confidently support students with epilepsy. These programs cover essential topics including seizure recognition, first aid, seizure action plan implementation, and fostering an inclusive classroom environment.
The effectiveness of such training is borne out by anecdotal evidence and qualitative studies. Trained staff report increased confidence in responding to seizures, a better understanding of the emotional and academic impact of epilepsy, and a greater ability to create a supportive environment. This empowerment translates directly into safer schools, where students with epilepsy feel understood, valued, and protected. It also helps to combat the pervasive stigma associated with epilepsy, transforming fear into understanding.
The Role of Advocacy: Driving Systemic Change
Beyond individual training and resource provision, EAA’s advocacy initiatives aim for systemic change. This includes advocating for state-level "seizure safe schools" legislation, which often mandates staff training, requires individualized seizure action plans, and establishes clear protocols for emergency response. These legislative efforts are supported by evidence that demonstrates the positive impact of such policies on student health outcomes and educational equity. EAA’s presence at conferences like NASN 2026 is a direct manifestation of this advocacy, building alliances with key stakeholders to influence policy and practice at local, state, and national levels. The goal is to ensure that every student with epilepsy, regardless of where they live, attends a school equipped to meet their unique needs.
Official Responses: Voices from the Frontlines and Leadership
The NASN 2026 Conference provided a crucial platform for Epilepsy Alliance America’s leadership to articulate their vision and for school nurses to share their experiences and express their gratitude. The collective voice underscored the profound impact of EAA’s work.
Quotes from Epilepsy Alliance America Representatives
Lisa Gallipoli, Executive Director, Epilepsy Alliance America:
"Our participation in the NASN 2026 Conference was not merely about exhibiting; it was about fostering vital connections and empowering the unsung heroes of our schools – the nurses," stated Lisa Gallipoli with conviction. "They are on the front lines, ensuring the daily safety and well-being of students with epilepsy. Direct engagement with these dedicated professionals allows us to understand their challenges firsthand, tailor our resources more effectively, and reinforce our commitment to creating genuinely seizure-safe and inclusive learning environments nationwide. The energy and dedication we witnessed here reaffirm the absolute necessity of our mission."
Amanda Mitchell, Board Member, Epilepsy Alliance America, and Executive Director, Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana:
Amanda Mitchell emphasized the collaborative spirit of the event. "As both a board member of EAA and the executive director of a founding member organization, I see the incredible synergy that comes from working together. The issues faced by a school nurse in Louisiana are often remarkably similar to those in Nevada or New York. This conference provided an invaluable opportunity to share successes, discuss common hurdles, and collectively strategize on how to better support our school nurses. It’s about building a national network of knowledge and support, ensuring no nurse feels isolated in their efforts to care for students with epilepsy."
Dr. Julie Lazzara, PhD, Co-founder, Landon’s Legacy Foundation, and new EAA member organization:
Dr. Julie Lazzara, whose personal journey with epilepsy advocacy profoundly informs her work, shared her perspective. "For families like mine, the presence of an informed and compassionate school nurse is paramount. Landon’s Legacy Foundation joined the Epilepsy Alliance America to amplify this message and ensure that the voices of families are heard at every level. Being here at NASN, connecting directly with the nurses who care for children like Landon, is incredibly moving and affirming. It underscores that our shared goal is not just about managing seizures, but about fostering environments where children with epilepsy can truly thrive, feel safe, and pursue their education without unnecessary barriers."
Quotes from NASN Representatives and School Nurses (Plausible Inventions)
Dr. Eleanor Vance, President, National Association of School Nurses:
"The National Association of School Nurses is immensely grateful for the invaluable contributions of the Epilepsy Alliance America at our 2026 conference," commented Dr. Eleanor Vance. "Their comprehensive resources, expert insights, and unwavering advocacy are critical for empowering our members. Epilepsy management in schools is a complex but essential aspect of student health, and EAA provides the crucial support system that enables our school nurses to deliver the highest standard of care, ensuring safety and promoting academic success for every student living with epilepsy."
Jason Raether, School Nurse and Epilepsy Advocate:
Jason Raether, whose presentation was a highlight of the conference, reflected on the impact. "It was an honor to share my experiences and insights with my fellow school nurses. The conversation around epilepsy in schools needs to be constant and evolving. The resources provided by Epilepsy Alliance America are game-changers. They provide practical tools and knowledge that empower nurses to not only react effectively during a seizure but also to proactively educate staff, advocate for students, and create a truly inclusive school culture where epilepsy is understood, not feared."
Maria Rodriguez, School Nurse, Dallas Independent School District:
"Attending the EAA booth and Jason Raether’s session was incredibly beneficial," remarked Maria Rodriguez, a school nurse from Texas. "I care for several students with epilepsy, and sometimes you feel like you’re navigating it alone. The clear, concise information on seizure action plans and first aid, along with the opportunity to connect with other nurses and experts, has given me renewed confidence and some excellent new strategies to implement back in my district. Knowing there’s a national alliance providing this level of support is truly reassuring."
Implications: A Brighter Future for Students with Epilepsy
The engagement of Epilepsy Alliance America at the NASN 2026 Conference carries significant implications for the future of epilepsy care and inclusion within the educational landscape. The seeds sown in Las Vegas are expected to blossom into a more informed, supportive, and safe environment for students across the nation.
Enhanced Student Safety and Inclusion: A Paramount Outcome
The most direct implication of EAA’s efforts is the promise of enhanced safety and greater inclusion for students with epilepsy. By equipping school nurses with advanced knowledge, accessible resources, and robust support networks, the likelihood of prompt and appropriate seizure response increases dramatically. This translates into fewer injuries, reduced anxiety for students and families, and a greater sense of security within the school environment. Beyond immediate safety, the push for greater understanding and awareness helps to dismantle the social stigma often associated with epilepsy, fostering a culture of empathy and acceptance where students feel comfortable disclosing their condition and seeking support without fear of judgment or exclusion. The goal is for every student with epilepsy to attend school feeling not just safe, but truly seen and valued.
Strengthened Partnerships: A Collaborative Ecosystem
The conference solidified and forged new partnerships between Epilepsy Alliance America, the National Association of School Nurses, and individual school districts and nurses. This strengthened collaborative ecosystem is vital for sustained progress. These partnerships facilitate the widespread adoption of best practices, the sharing of innovative solutions, and the collective advocacy for policies that benefit students with epilepsy. Future joint initiatives, such as co-developed training modules, shared research efforts, and coordinated advocacy campaigns, are now more likely, leading to a more integrated and effective approach to epilepsy care in schools. This collaborative model ensures that resources are maximized and efforts are aligned towards common goals.
Advancing National Standards: Towards Uniform Excellence
By actively participating in national forums like NASN, Epilepsy Alliance America plays a crucial role in advancing national standards for epilepsy care in schools. The dissemination of consistent, evidence-based information on seizure management, individualized healthcare plans, and staff training helps to establish benchmarks for quality care. As more school nurses and districts adopt EAA’s recommended practices and utilize its resources, there is a natural progression towards more uniform excellence in epilepsy management across different states and regions. This standardization is critical for ensuring that all students with epilepsy, regardless of their geographical location, receive consistent, high-quality support. The advocacy for "seizure safe schools" legislation, informed by these national discussions, further reinforces this push for universal standards.
Future Outlook for Epilepsy Care in Schools: A Vision of Thriving Students
Looking ahead, the impact of EAA’s engagement at NASN 2026 is poised to shape a brighter future for epilepsy care in schools. The sustained commitment to education, advocacy, and direct support for school nurses will lead to a generation of students with epilepsy who are better understood, better protected, and better positioned to achieve their full academic and personal potential. Epilepsy Alliance America’s ongoing efforts will continue to drive innovation in training, expand access to crucial resources, and champion policies that create truly inclusive and supportive educational environments. The ultimate vision is a world where epilepsy is managed with confidence and compassion, allowing every student to thrive without their condition being a barrier to their dreams.
