Going to School with a Disability
How GAPP and Other Programs Can Support Your Child’s School Year
For parents of medically fragile children, the start of the school year brings more than just school supplies and bus schedules: it brings a new layer of planning to ensure their child’s health and educational needs are fully supported. Fortunately, Georgia’s Pediatric Program (GAPP) can help.
Whether your child is transitioning to kindergarten, entering middle school, or returning after a summer break, this guide will help you understand how GAPP can work hand-in-hand with your child’s school routine.
What is the GAPP Program?
GAPP, or Georgia Pediatric Program, is a Medicaid-funded service that provides free in-home nursing and personal care to children under 21 who are medically fragile and have complex medical needs. These services are designed to support families in caring for their children safely at home, including during the school year.
👉 Learn more about how to apply for GAPP here.
How GAPP Supports the School Routine
Here are the top ways GAPP care can help make the school year smoother for your family:
1. Morning Routines Made Easier
A skilled nurse or personal support caregiver can help your child get ready for school, managing medications, morning hygiene, feeding assistance (including G-tubes), dressing, and wheelchair transfers.
2. After-School Support
Once school ends, GAPP caregivers can be there to continue care, support therapy routines, and assist with after-school decompression and playtime.
3. Support for Children Who Are Homeschooled
GAPP also supports children who are educated at home or through virtual school programs. Caregivers can assist with toileting, positioning, and routine management so children can focus on learning.
4. Preventing Hospital Readmissions
Having a trained caregiver or nurse at home helps reduce school-related health complications like illness flare-ups or unmanaged symptoms that often lead to ER visits.
5. More Stability, Less Missed School
With professional support at home, your child may experience fewer health-related absences, leading to a more consistent and successful academic year.
Common Conditions Covered by GAPP
If your child has one of these diagnoses, they may qualify for GAPP:
Cerebral palsy
Spina bifida
Epilepsy or seizure disorders
Hydrocephalus
Genetic or metabolic disorders
Tracheostomy or ventilator dependence
Gastrostomy (G-tube) feeding
Wheelchair dependence
Medically complex or tech-dependent care
💡 Not sure if your child qualifies? Contact us for a free eligibility screening.
GAPP and School Nurses: What’s the Difference?
It’s a common question—can’t the school nurse just handle things? In reality:
School Nurse
Shared across many students
Available only during school hours
Can’t assist with in-home needs
GAPP Caregiver/Nurse
Dedicated 1-on-1 care at home
Available before/after school and weekends
Helps with daily routines, mobility, and medications at home
Both are important parts of the care team, but GAPP provides a level of personal support that schools often can’t.
Can I Use GAPP While My Child Attends School?
Your family can receive GAPP services during the school year. While the hours your child is cared for can not overlap with school, GAPP hours are flexible and based on your child’s individual needs. If your child is in school during the day, your care plan might include early mornings, after school, evenings, and weekends. If your child is homebound, more hours may be available. So in short, a child in school can certainly qualify for GAPP, but the care needs to be performed while they are at home.
How Do I Get Started With GAPP?
Check Eligibility – Your child must be under 21 and on Medicaid or eligible for Medicaid.
Speak With a GAPP Agency – A service like Miralta can help you get up and running.
Assessment & Approval – A nurse case manager will evaluate your child’s needs.
Submit the paperwork– That’s where we come in! Miralta Home Care will match you with a qualified caregiver and handle all the applications.
Helpful Back-to-School Tips for Parents of Medically Fragile Kids
🏫 Meet with your child’s teacher and school nurse to review the IEP or 504 Plan.
📅 Share your child’s care schedule with school staff.
🧼 Review handwashing, safety, and infection control protocols.
🧾 Keep an updated medication and emergency plan in both the home and school.
📣 Communicate regularly with your home care agency and school to keep everyone on the same page.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Miralta Home Care is proud to walk alongside Georgia families: every school day, and every step of the way. With compassionate nurses, caregivers, and a dedicated team, we help parents breathe easier knowing their children are safe, supported, and thriving.
🎒 Ready to get started with GAPP before school is in full swing? Contact us today for a free consultation.
