A program to help asthmatic students reach their potential

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Education
• Public Health

Background:

• Asthma is a prevalent chronic childhood illness, impacting 15% of American children under 15.
• It is a leading cause of school absenteeism and is associated with diminished academic achievement.
• Parents of Asthmatic Kids (PAK) highlighted teachers' insufficient preparation for managing students with asthma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an educational program for elementary school teachers on managing childhood asthma.
• To address specific needs identified by parents and teachers regarding asthma education in schools.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive educational program was created, including audiovisuals, brochures, and student materials.
• The program was designed for delivery during faculty meetings across school systems.
• Program effectiveness was assessed using pre- and post-program testing.

Main Results:

• Teacher surveys confirmed a significant need for asthma education.
• The program was well-received by educators, indicating potential for improved asthma management in schools.
• The program received endorsement from the American Lung Association of Alabama.

Conclusions:

• The developed educational program effectively addresses the need for asthma preparedness among elementary school teachers.
• Implementing this program can help asthmatic students achieve their full potential by providing teachers with necessary knowledge and resources.
• The program's acceptance by health organizations suggests its scalability and potential for broader impact.