The Teacher

The teacher is a direct observer of the daily behavior, activities and functions of a child in the classroom. The teacher's observations should be included when assessing the child's ability to learn and progress at the appropriate pace.

Specific areas to assess:

• Behavior - related to learning and socialization. The teacher should concentrate on the child's ability to attend, achieve, and participate in academics and activities. The student should perceive that he/she is an integral and valuable member of the class and school.
• Physical Appearance - related to appropriate dress and cleanliness. The teacher should know the student well and recognize, often by assessing the child's body language, how he/she is feeling, both physically and emotionally.
• Medical - related to the child's disease. The teacher needs to have a comprehensive knowledge of the child's illness, symptoms and treatment plan. The teacher should also have a thorough awareness of the signs and symptoms that may be considered a medical emergency for a child with sickle cell disease.

Other areas to address:

• Referral to the child study team.
• Family Conference-ongoing to assess family's and student's adjustment to illness and school pressure.
• Learn child's special needs.
• Don't protect child too much, but don't ignore him/her.
• Expect the best.