The Ontario Ministry of Education has launched a comprehensive review of Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) 161, which governs how schools support students with prevalent medical conditions, including diabetes. The review presents a significant opportunity to establish stronger, more consistent standards of care for children living with diabetes in Ontario schools.
Families of children living with diabetes have increasingly raised concerns about inconsistent implementation and gaps in support. Last fall, Diabetes Canada alongside parent advocates and their children, held a media conference at the Ontario Legislature to launch a nationwide advocacy campaign aimed at ensuring consistent, safe, and equitable support for all students living with diabetes across the country.
"Managing diabetes is a 24/7 responsibility that doesn't pause during school hours," said Glenn Thibeault, Executive Director of Government Affairs, Advocacy and Policy. "Children living with diabetes deserve to learn in environments where their health needs are understood, respected, and properly supported. We are pleased the Ontario government has heard our call-to-action. This review is a critical opportunity to ensure every student receives the consistent, safe care they need to thrive."
Consultations
The Ministry's Safe Schools Branch is conducting targeted consultations with condition-specific organizations, including Diabetes Canada, as well as healthcare professionals, principals, education partners, and parents of children living with diabetes. Families will have opportunities to participate through written and verbal submissions.The review aims to identify current best practices and opportunities to enhance supports for students with medical conditions in schools, with the goal of establishing mandated standards of care that protect every student living with diabetes in Ontario.
Parents and caregivers who wish to share their experiences regarding diabetes care in schools are encouraged to document their concerns and recommendations as consultation opportunities become available.
For more information or if you’d like to participate in the consultation process please contact advocacy@diabetes.ca
The Ontario Ministry of Education has launched a comprehensive review of Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) 161, which governs how schools support students with prevalent medical conditions, including diabetes. The review presents a significant opportunity to establish stronger, more consistent standards of care for children living with diabetes in Ontario schools.