Nashville, TN, August 15, 2025
News Summary
The U.S. has settled with Metro Nashville Public Schools to address ADA violations regarding support for students with Type 1 Diabetes. The agreement includes policy adaptations for continuous glucose monitoring and improvements in communication between families and schools. The settlement reflects the challenges faced by students needing support in managing their health conditions. Compensation will also be provided to the affected families for their distress.
Nashville, TN – Settlement Reached on ADA Violations for Students with Type 1 Diabetes
The United States has reached a settlement with Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) and Ross Early Learning Center following allegations of violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire of the Middle District of Tennessee, the settlement aims to enhance support for students with Type 1 Diabetes.
As part of the agreement, MNPS has committed to adapting its policies for students requiring continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), which is critical for managing blood sugar levels. The case highlighted the challenges faced by a three-year-old child with Type 1 Diabetes who needed a CGM to monitor blood sugar without repeated finger-stick tests.
The child’s parents reported that they encountered significant resistance from staff at Ross Early Learning Center regarding tracking the CGM alerts after school nurses had left for the day. Feeling unsupported, they eventually took on the responsibility of tracking their child’s health, which led to their disillusionment with the school’s accommodations. Afterward, the child returned to the school for half-days in an effort to manage their glycemic levels more effectively.
The settlement will require MNPS to implement several key changes. Highlights of the agreement include:
- Recognition of the legal obligation to support students with diabetes.
- Assurance that trained staff will monitor CGMs using school equipment.
- Improved communication between families and schools regarding CGM management during school hours.
- Accessibility of CGM policy details online for transparency.
Additionally, MNPS will compensate the complainants $1,000 for the distress associated with securing adequate care for their child. The Justice Department clarified that while the case resulted in a settlement, no formal liability was established. However, the actions taken are expected to lead to crucial systemic changes for students with disabilities within MNPS.
Background on Type 1 Diabetes and Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Type 1 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, causing elevated blood sugar levels. Continuous glucose monitoring is an important tool for managing the condition, allowing users to keep track of their glucose levels in real-time without the need for frequent blood tests.
In schools, it is essential for staff to be properly trained to assist students with health conditions, ensuring that all legal and ethical obligations are met. The enhancements outlined in the settlement are vital not only for the affected family but also set a precedent for future support for all students with disabilities within the MNPS system.
Next Steps for Affected Families
Families needing further information about their rights under the ADA can visit the Justice Department’s ADA website or contact the ADA Information Line. It is essential for parents to understand the accommodations their children are entitled to and advocate effectively on their behalf.
FAQ
What is the ADA?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including schools.
What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?
A Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is a device used by individuals with diabetes to continuously track their blood sugar levels, thus reducing the need for finger-stick tests.
What changes has Metro Nashville Public Schools committed to implement?
Metro Nashville Public Schools has agreed to recognize their obligation to support students with diabetes, ensure trained staff monitor CGMs, improve communication regarding CGM handling, and provide accessible CGM policy details online.
Key Features of Settlement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment of ADA Obligations | MNPS must recognize their legal responsibilities to support students with diabetes. |
| Trained Staff Monitoring | Staff must be trained to monitor CGMs and utilize school equipment for communication. |
| Enhanced Communication | Improved communication between families and school regarding health management. |
| Online Transparency | Details of CGM policies to be made available on MNPS website. |
| Compensation | MNPS is providing compensation to the complainants for their distress. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- MSN News: Nashville Schools Settle ADA Dispute
- Tennessean: Nashville Schools Settle Diabetic Child Settlement
- Hoodline: MNPS Settles ADA Dispute
- NewsChannel 5: Dyslexic Learners Focus
- Wikipedia: Americans with Disabilities Act
Author: HERE Nashville
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