WATCH NOW
Advertisement:
“Parents are the most powerful advocates for their child’s health. A school nurse isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.” – Corrine Jones
Does your child’s school have a full-time nurse? If not, their health and safety could be at risk. School nurses play a vital role in managing chronic conditions, responding to medical emergencies, and keeping students healthy so they can learn. Join Corrine Jones, co-leader of the Special Needs School Nurse Interest Group, as she shares how parents nationwide have successfully advocated for more school nurses—and how you can do the same before a crisis happens.
Key Points & Takeaways for Parents:
- The Reality: Many schools still don’t have full-time nurses, leaving children vulnerable.
- Why It Matters: School nurses are essential for managing conditions like asthma, diabetes, seizures, and severe allergies.
- Parent Power Works: Real-life stories of parents who successfully pushed for more school nurses.
- What You Can Do:
- Speak Up: Attend school board meetings and voice your concerns.
- Get Organized: Work with PTOs, parent groups, and advocacy organizations.
- Raise Awareness: Use social media and community events to share the importance of school nurses.
- Use Available Resources: The National Association of School Nurses provides toolkits and support for parent advocacy.
- Investing in Nurses Saves Schools Money: Every $1 spent on school nurses saves $2.20 in emergency care and lost workdays.
- Partner with Your School Nurse: If your school has a nurse, build a relationship to ensure your child gets the care they need.
About Author
Corinne Jones, RN, MSN, CSN-PEL, is the Director of Health Services for CCSD 15 with 30+ years in NICU, PICU, and school health. She instructs nursing courses, co-leads NASN’s Special Needs School Nurse group, and specializes in training caregivers for medically complex children.
Helpful Articles
- Private Duty Nursing: What Is It? Why You Need It? And How to Get It [1]
- What Is It REALLY Like to Have Nurses in Your Home? [2]
- Good Record Keeping is a Must! Tips on Organizing your Medical Records [3]
- Dealing with Emergencies [4]
- Fostering Healthy Relationships [5]
- Body Safety be Aware: Some General Tips and Guidelines [6]
- Precautions to Take Before Allowing Anyone to Care for Your Child! [7]
- 10 Tips to an Organized Medicine Cabinet [8]
- My Child’s Emergency Medical Information [9]
- Medwaiver Program How the Waiver Can Help Your Child [10]
- PSN My Child’s Medications Form [11]
- Drowning in paperwork? Here’s what helps us [12]