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Transition to adulthood for young people with diabetes is a critical milestone in their lives. It is a time when many facets of life are changing simultaneously. It is most important to recognize the special needs of adolescents with diabetes during this period. A successful and smooth transition of diabetes care should be based on a well-organized plan that includes the young person and the family. The process should be facilitated by collaboration between the pediatric and adult clinics. It should be guided by structured policies and guidelines, including posttransition evaluation. Finally, it should be a process, not an event. The school nurse can play a critical role in its success.

The SEARCH, TODAY, and HEALTHY studies, and NASN's SCOPE intervention, illustrate that collaboration between schools, school nurses, clinicians, students, and families can help treat and prevent diabetes and obesity in youth. Findings will help identify the prevalence of diabetes in young people, the best ways to treat youth with new-onset type 2 diabetes, and healthful practices that can reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Findings about diabetes prevention in the school setting can guide school nurses and school leadership to incorporate effective changes into food and physical activity offerings to students. Finally, school nurses can communicate with primary care providers and provide culturally sensitive letters to parents and guardians regarding the BMI results for the child.