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School Support During Serious Illness

Find information on school support during a serious illness

When a child faces a serious illness, maintaining a connection to school can be important for their well-being. Find information on working with your child’s school to make sure they get the support they need. Learn about creating individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 plans and finding resources to help your child stay engaged with their education.

  • boy-gets-bullied
    Bullying

    Some childhood cancer patients and survivors may be at risk for bullying. Children and teens with physical, developmental, intellectual, emotional, and sensory differences are more likely to be bullied than their peers.

  • Parents meet with young child's teacher in classroom.
    Classroom Accommodations

    Youth returning to school after cancer, sickle cell, or other illness may need support. Learn how a 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program (IEP) can help.

  • Girl in white cap and gown being kissed on the cheek by her mother
    Homebound Services

    Homebound school services are educational programs for students who cannot attend regular school due to medical reasons. Learn about homebound instruction.

  • Parent and child speak with counselor in school classroom setting
    Parents as Advocates

    If your child has a serious illness, it is important to be their advocate and ensure their education needs are met. Learn ways to advocate for your child.

  • Prom

    Many patients have considered whether or not to go to prom. They often ultimately recommend going if you are medically able, and it’s something you want to do.

  • Child cancer patient sitting at school desk with open textbook.
    School Support during Chronic Illness

    If your child has a serious illness, keeping up with school can be a challenge. Learn how to meet your child’s education needs during illness and hospital stays.

  • Nurse and young boy take selfie together
    Stay Connected to Classmates

    It is important for your child to stay connected with friends and classmates during treatment. Learn ways to keep up with school and connect with classmates.

Resources for teens and young adults

  • ACT or SAT Accommodations

    Cancer patients may qualify for accommodations on ACT and SAT tests. Read more about accommodations and what you need to do to arrange them.

  • College Classroom Accommodations for Cancer Patients and Survivors

    College and trade schools can help you when you need accommodations for cancer-related problems. Learn about services and how to get them.

  • Educational Challenges

    After finishing cancer treatment, some children and teens may face extra challenges in school that are related to their diagnosis and/or treatment.

  • Financial Aid and College Scholarships

    Financial aid and college scholarships are available for cancer patients and survivors, as well as people with disabilities. Find scholarship information.

  • Female teen
    Keep Up with School

    Cancer treatment and side effects will likely disrupt your regular school schedule. Find resources to help you make the most of your education.

  • Starting High School with Cancer

    Teenagers with cancer have it hard. Then add in the stresses of high school. Learn how Ellie, a leukemia patient, made the transition.

Carlos Frias, president and co-founder of Faros de Vida

Making Connections, Helping Fellow Survivors

Carlos Frías uses his cancer experience to help others. Learn about his work with Faros de Vida, a Latin American network of childhood cancer survivors. 

Read more about cancer survivor support