School Setting

This section was developed to support school boards and schools with the implementation of the requirements set out in Ryan’s Law (Ensuring Asthma Friendly Schools), 2015, and Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No. 161: Supporting Children and Students with Prevalent Medical Conditions (Anaphylaxis, Asthma, Diabetes, and/or Epilepsy) in Schools, 2018. Creating and maintaining asthma friendly school environments demonstrates a school’s commitment to the safety, well-being, and achievement of all students, as well as assisting them in reaching their full potential. 

Policy Requirements 

Ryan’s Law (Ensuring Asthma Friendly Schools) came into effect on May 5, 2015. The legislation requires:  

  • every school board in the province to develop an asthma policy  
  • schools to develop an individual plan for every student with asthma  
  • schools to allow students to carry their inhalers (parent(s)/guardian(s) permission is required for those under 16 years of age) 

The Ontario Ministry of Education’s Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No. 161: Supporting Children and Students with Prevalent Medical Conditions (Anaphylaxis, Asthma, Diabetes, and/or Epilepsy) in Schools, 2018, requires: 

  • school boards in Ontario to have a policy or policies to support students in schools who have anaphylaxis, asthma, diabetes, and/or epilepsy
  • principals to meet with parent(s)/guardian(s), school staff supporting the student, and student (if age-appropriate) to complete and communicate the Plan of Care, which includes information on the student’s medication, indications for its use, and where it is kept, daily management, and triggers

Refer to Ryan’s Law and PPM 161 video for more information on Ryan’s Law and PPM 161.

School Board Policy 

School boards are required to develop an asthma policy that includes the details required by Ryan’s Law (Ensuring Asthma Friendly Schools), 2015, and Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No. 161: Supporting Children and Students with Prevalent Medical Conditions (Anaphylaxis, Asthma, Diabetes, and/or Epilepsy) in Schools, 2018. Check with your local public health unit, as they may be able to assist in the policy development/review process.   

Note: it is important for principals/teachers to know and understand their responsibilities identified in their school board’s policy. 

Plan of Care 

A Plan of Care includes student information, emergency contacts, triggers, management, emergency procedures, and health care provider information.

With parent(s)/guardian(s) permission, the Plan of Care is shared with all school staff who work with the student so they can respond more appropriately if there is an asthma flare-up and/or emergency. 

The school should also communicate with the school bus company regarding students with asthma. The bus drivers will follow the duties described in the school bus company’s policy and procedures manuals. 

Note: It is important for principals/ teachers to be aware of and understand their responsibilities related to the Plan of Care. 

Resources