Hospital program helps patients continue school

With the school year near its end, many students are wrapping up final exams and planning classes for next year.

But what about children who are in the hospital?

Alex, 15, is a freshman at Spoto High School.

He has been in and out of different hospitals for the past month, but his recent stay at All Children's Hospital has made his life a little easier when it comes to catching up with his studies.

"I felt really relieved because I didn't have to start over," said Alex. "I thought, at first, I'd have to go back next year and repeat freshman year because I had to go to the hospital."

Alex and his grandmother have certified teacher Jill Gardner to thank for helping them put a plan in place.

Gardner is the program coordinator for the Patient Academic Services at All Children's Hospital, and her team of volunteer tutors and retired teachers helps patients continue their education.

She said that continuing the learning process can reduce a child's stress and help them cope.

"One example I saw -- by sending tutors to read with a child who is very, very ill," said Gardner. "This tutor went in regularly and the child was often experiencing pain. It was being managed, but whenever this tutor would read with the child, they never asked for pain meds."

With help from Hospital/Homebound teachers, 800 patients had their educational needs assessed.

The team coordinates everything from contacting school guidance counselors to providing books and computers.

"They can just breathe easier," said Gardner. "You literally hear them let out a sigh. Okay, something is in place. And when they're up to doing, they will do. But we wait until they're able."

Bailey, 5, has also been in the hospital for a few weeks.

Her mom, Britnie Walker, says she'll soon be ready both physically and mentally to get back to her academics.

"Especially for a kid that's starting school to continue her education so she doesn't fall behind," said Walker.

Patient Academic Services are typically available to patients who will be hospitalized at least three weeks or longer.

The coordinator's best advice for parents is to call their child's school guidance counselor or teacher to set up a plan.

Hospital staff members and homebound teachers can help execute the curriculum.