Navigating Diabetes with Support: The Ritchie Family’s Saint Ann Experience

When Jessica and Joe Ritchie made the decision to move to Stoughton in 2020, they had two young children in tow: Cameron, then four years old, and Parker, who was just six months old. With a fresh start ahead, one of their biggest priorities was finding the right school for Cameron, especially after he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of four.

“As parents, we knew that wherever Cameron went to school, it had to be a place that could not only provide an excellent education but also manage his medical needs,” Jessica shared. “Cameron’s diabetes requires constant monitoring, and we needed a school where we could trust the staff to care for him.”

A School That Felt Like Family

While researching schools, the Ritchies’ good friends, who lived in Stoughton, recommended Saint Ann School, sharing that all their children had attended. Intrigued, Jessica and Joe decided to visit, hoping to find a supportive community where Cameron would thrive.

Their first impression? The personal care and attention given to each student. “When we met with the teachers, including the 4K teacher Mrs. Matz (now the current kindergarten teacher), we could see right away that the school was truly committed to creating a nurturing environment for all kids,” Jessica explained.

Cameron’s diabetes means that his blood sugar levels must be checked every 15 to 30 minutes, requiring someone to either administer insulin or provide sugar if necessary. At first, the Ritchies were understandably concerned. After all, the school did not have a nurse on site. But what they discovered was even better than they expected.

“Mrs. Matz and her aide, Mrs. Jansen, were incredibly thorough and responsive. We could tell they were fully invested in Cameron’s well-being,” Jessica recalled. “The lines of communication were always open. If Cameron’s blood sugar dropped during a field trip or in class, they immediately addressed it and let us know what was happening. We never felt out of the loop.”

A Community That Cares

One of the most remarkable aspects of Cameron’s journey at Saint Ann has been the sense of community and teamwork. With the help of Jessica and Joe, who visited the classroom to read a children’s book about diabetes, the whole class learned about Cameron’s condition. This initiative not only educated the students but also fostered an environment where they look out for each other.

“The kids in Cameron’s class are incredibly supportive,” Jessica said. “If his blood sugar monitor goes off, they immediately make sure the teacher knows. It’s amazing to see how they take care of him, and it’s created such a positive, family-like atmosphere in the classroom.”

Consistent Care and Support

Each year, as the school year begins, Jessica and Joe meet with the school’s principal, Aimee Stano, and any staff members who will be working with Cameron to refresh their understanding of his medical needs. This process has been vital in ensuring that everyone is on the same page and comfortable with the care he requires.

“It’s never uncomfortable,” Jessica said. “The teachers and staff are always open to learning how best to take care of Cameron. They ask questions, they care, and they’re never hesitant to step in and help.”

One of the school’s greatest strengths, Jessica believes, is that the care is not limited to just one person. “There’s a sense of shared responsibility,” she explained. “From the homeroom teacher to the specialists like PE, music, Spanish and art teachers, everyone is engaged. And because they all know what to do, Cameron never feels singled out or misunderstood.”

Looking Back and Moving Forward

As Cameron enters his fourth year at Saint Ann, Jessica and Joe continue to feel overwhelmingly positive about their choice. Cameron is thriving in a supportive environment, and now his younger brother, Parker, is also in 4K at Saint Ann.

“Parker had never been in daycare before, so he was a little nervous about starting school,” Jessica shared. “But in just four months, he’s made incredible progress. He’s confident, happy, and feels at home at Saint Ann, just like Cameron does.”

For the Ritchies, choosing Saint Ann was about more than just finding a place for their children to learn—it was about finding a school that would treat their children like family. “Saint Ann is like a second home for our kids,” Jessica said. “We’ve had such a positive experience, and I would encourage anyone to consider this school. It’s truly a place where kids can grow and flourish, both academically and emotionally.”

In Conclusion

The Ritchies' journey at Saint Ann School is a testament to the power of a supportive, compassionate community. For parents like Jessica and Joe, knowing that their children are in a place where they feel cared for, understood, and safe is invaluable. Whether it’s managing a medical condition like Type 1 Diabetes or simply fostering an environment of kindness and understanding, Saint Ann has proven time and time again to be a school that goes above and beyond.