When working with a student who has leukemia, what should a teacher expect regarding attendance?

When working with a student who has leukemia, it is reasonable to expect that the student will have frequent absences. Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, often resulting in various treatment regimens that can lead to significant fatigue, compromised immune systems, and the need for hospital visits or treatments. These physical challenges, along with potential side effects from treatments such as chemotherapy, can make attendance in school sporadic or irregular.

Students with leukemia may also need time away from school for doctor appointments and recovery periods. Thus, understanding that the student may struggle to maintain consistent attendance is crucial for educators as it allows them to provide the necessary support, such as differentiated instruction, flexible deadlines, and alternative learning plans to accommodate the student’s health needs. This knowledge helps create a more inclusive and understanding classroom environment for the student.