Kansas City, KS – When a student suffers a concussion, returning to the classroom can be just as challenging as returning to sports. Symptoms can affect concentration, memory and the ability to keep up with schoolwork, leaving teachers unsure what accommodations are needed. Now, a tool called TACT (Teacher Acute Concussion Tool), already used in Missouri, is being introduced in Kansas to help bridge the communication gap between healthcare providers, parents and educators. On All Things Brain Health, how The University of Kansas Health System and community partners are working to make concussion recovery easier to navigate so students can continue learning while they heal.
Dr. Michael Rippee, Neurologist, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Rippee discusses why The Health System became involved in bringing the TACT initiative to Kansas.
He explains how the tool can help translate medical recommendations into realistic classroom accommodations.
He addresses the importance of collaboration between neurology, sports medicine and athletic training teams.
He discusses how schools can support learning while allowing students time to recover.
Kristie Hatfield, Concussion Nurse Coordinator, The University of Kansas Health System
Kristie discusses the concerns families face when sending children back to school following a concussion.
She explains how TACT is designed to improve communication among healthcare providers, parents and educators.
She addresses how inconsistent accommodations can complicate a student's recovery.
She discusses the importance of adjusting support as concussion symptoms change.
Daniel Kennedy, Vice President of Outreach, Minds Matter
Daniel discusses why Minds Matter joined the partnership to support students recovering from concussions.
He explains the importance of helping students remain engaged in learning throughout recovery.
He addresses why students should have a voice in conversations about their own accommodations.
He discusses how better education can change perceptions about brain injuries.
Caitlin Truhe, Athletic Trainer Supervisor, The University of Kansas Health System; Athletic Trainer, Blue Valley High School
Caitlin explains how concussion symptoms can affect students beyond the playing field, including their performance in the classroom.
She discusses examples of classroom challenges which may require temporary accommodations.
She explains why recovery plans must account for symptoms that can fluctuate from day to day.