Supporting Students with Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder affecting approximately 1 in every 365 African American births. Students with SCD are likely to experience ongoing complications that will interfere with their attendance, functioning at school, and overall daily functioning throughout their lives. This article provides education about SCD and its impact on the body, organs, brain, and academic performance. Armed with this knowledge, school psychologists will be better prepared to assess the academic needs of students with SCD, develop a positive environment that facilitates social-emotional development, and advocate for supports within the school setting.