Connected Kansas Kids

Medically Involved Youth

Multiple studies have been conducted that arrive at a uniform conclusion:  teachers are not prepared, either in preservice or inservice venues, to work with children with serious health conditions.  Educators consistently respond that they want more knowledge and support in program planning for this population of learners.  In a study which examined 270 sixth graders with chronic health conditions in regard to school achievement and absenteeism, it was discovered that the mean national achievement score for students with chronic health conditions was at the 51st percentile, compared with the 63rd percentile for healthy peers.  At the high school level, 35% of students identified as "other health impaired" report failing grades. Only 6% of secondary students with chronic illnesses have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) that address postsecondary educational or vocational goals, and 36% worry they will not get a job and, thus, may not be eligible for health insurance.



Below is a list of the topics currently available to schools for no-cost staff development through the Connected Kansas Kids project.  Additional information is available upon request or visit their website at

 http://www.connectedkansaskids.com