Whether you’re headed into middle school, high school, or college, going back to school with diabetes takes more than just fresh notebooks and a new backpack. It’s about showing up prepared—not just for class, but for anything diabetes throws your way. With a little planning and the right tools, you can walk into the school year feeling ready for anything.

Here’s your back-to-school guide to living fearless with diabetes.

1. Stock Up: Build a Diabetes Go Bag for School

Before you even think about your first day outfit, make sure your diabetes bag is fully stocked. This might be a pouch you keep in your backpack, a locker stash, or something your school nurse holds on to. Either way, it should include:

• Backup pump supplies (infusion sets, reservoirs, charging cables)
  

• Extra CGM sensors or transmitters
  

• Alcohol wipes and adhesive remover
  

• Low snacks like glucose tabs, juice boxes, or fruit snacks
  

• Skin Grip adhesive patches to reinforce your CGM or pump site during long school days, sports, and sticky weather
  

Bonus tip: Label everything. If a friend or teacher ever needs to help grab your stuff in an emergency, it’ll be much easier if they know what’s what.

2. Stick with Confidence: Keep Devices in Place

No one wants their pump site peeling off during a presentation or their CGM failing during P.E.

Skin Grip patches are made for exactly this kind of chaos. Our adhesive patches are:

• Waterproof and sweatproof
  

• Designed to last 10+ days
  

• Flexible enough for sports, dancing, or the hallway stampede in between classes
  
  

For school days that start early and end with after-school activities, our patches keep your devices stuck and secure so you can focus on everything else.

3. Prep for Lows Like a Pro

Even with the best planning, lows can still sneak up. Having a clear plan helps you avoid panic and get back to normal faster.

Here’s how to be low-ready:

• Keep fast-acting carbs in multiple spots (your backpack, locker, pencil case, and car)
  

• Let your close friends or classmates know what to do if you’re low and need help
  

• Talk with teachers at the start of the year about what a low might look like for you and that you might need to snack in class
  

4. Don’t Skip the Accommodations Conversation

If you’re in a K-12 school in the U.S., you have the right to a 504 plan—a legal document that outlines the diabetes accommodations you need at school. Even in college, you can request accommodations through the disability services office.

Consider asking for accommodations like:

• Permission to test blood sugar or dose insulin in class
  

• Unlimited access to water and restrooms
  

• The ability to make up tests or assignments if blood sugars interfere
  

• Access to the nurse’s office or diabetes supplies at all times
  
  

Not sure where to start? Organizations like JDRF, ADA, and The Diabetes Link offer great templates and guides. And remember: advocating for yourself is a form of strength, not a weakness.

5. Build Your Support Squad

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you’re in it alone. Find your people early in the school year:

• Introduce yourself to your school nurse, even if you rarely go there
  

• Connect with a few trusted teachers who can check in if something seems off
  

• Talk to friends about what diabetes looks like for you (if you’re comfortable sharing)
  
  

Even one supportive person can make school feel safer. And having a few people who know what’s up with your diabetes means less stress for you when something unexpected happens.

6. Bonus Prep: Mindset + Motivation

Back-to-school season can bring nerves for anyone, but especially if you’re balancing blood sugars, tech devices, and social stuff.

Here’s your reminder: you are not a burden. You are capable. You are allowed to pause, to take care of yourself, to take up space in the nurse’s office, to snack in the middle of class. Diabetes doesn’t make you “other.” It makes you experienced, adaptable, and tough.

If you’re feeling anxious, try these quick mental resets:

• Set one small goal each week (like logging your numbers or remembering your backup snacks)
  

• Celebrate wins, no matter how small
  

• Wear something that makes you feel good on the first day, including your favorite patterned Skin Grip patch! Your vibe matters.
  

Final Thoughts: Start Strong, Stay Supported

You deserve a school year that’s filled with wins, both academic and personal. With the right tools in your backpack, supportive people on your side, and fearless confidence in yourself, there’s nothing diabetes can keep you from doing.

And remember, Skin Grip is with you every step of the way. Our patches are built for real life: long days, gym class, and whatever else school throws at you.

Let’s make this year your strongest yet.