We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to school nurses for the incredible work you do each day. Your role is vital in protecting the health and well-being of students across our schools. Whether you're administering medication, treating injuries, offering emotional support, or promoting healthy habits, your dedication is truly invaluable.
In honor of School Nurse Day, we asked you to share what inspired you to become a school nurse or the moment you knew this profession was meant for you. Your stories gave us a deeper appreciation for the powerful impact you have on students’ lives. Below are just a few of the wonderful responses we received.
What paved your path to school nursing?
- “I decided to become a school nurse because I never had a safe person to help me learn about my body growing up. I strive to be a known, safe person to the children in the schools I work at and teach them to advocate for themselves so they can feel empowered to care for their bodies in a healthy way.” - Chelsea W.
- “When I was 14, I had a strep infection and was hospitalized. I saw nurses taking great care of me. They were thoughtful and kind when I was apprehensive about being in the hospital. I knew from then on that I wanted to be a nurse! Being a school nurse was a great way to inspire other kids to go into this profession as well.” – Marjorie B.
- “My school nurse from high school inspired me to become a school nurse. I was a 'nurse’s assistant' to her during my study period and learned a lot about school nursing and what they do which inspired to go to nursing school when I graduated and follow my dream of being a school nurse!” – Caitlin J.
- “What inspired me to become a school nurse was the positive impact a school nurse had on me during my own time as a student. I remember feeling anxious and overwhelmed some days, and she was always a calm, caring presence. Her ability to make students feel seen, safe and supported left a lasting impression on me. I realized how important it is to have someone like that in school setting, and I knew I wanted to be that person for others.” – Dolores G.
- “I truly enjoy working with children, and I believe that becoming a school nurse is one of the best ways to make a meaningful impact in their lives. Interacting with children from ages 3 to 13 brings me immense joy and fulfillment. They are our future, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the best and safest care possible in schools. By doing so, we help pave the way for their success both academically and in life.” – Delia M.
- “I was an oncology nurse for years and was facilitating a monthly cancer survivors' support group at the hospital that I worked at. One of the patients that came was a retired school nurse. She led me to look in school nursing; I have been a school nurse for 8 years now and am glad that I made the career change! I love serving the students, families, and staff.” – Jamie H.
- “My great grandmother was a nurse and she used to let me look at her nursing books when I was young. I was so intrigued with them at such an early age and watching her in her uniform. I started saying then that I wanted to be a nurse. As I grew older, I continued with that passion. When she passed, she left me her books. I still have them to this day and love my passion and drive for nursing. I owe it all to her.” – Racheal T.
- “My passion for caring for the students in a holistic way. If they need comfort when they're away from their parents or fell on the playground, I want to be a safe place where they can come to talk, rest or get an ice pack. For the older students who might be struggling in middle school with friends or figuring out this new phase of life, I want to be a place they can come for reassurance. Meeting the needs of every student where they are is why I became a school nurse.” – Katie B.
- “Being a mom myself, I wanted to be the advocate, protector, and safe place for students while they are at school. In order to create the ideal environment for learning, students and their families must feel safe and well taken care of. I just want to provide that for my students as I would want someone to care for my own children.” – Kaitlin H.
- “I was inspired to work in school health because I believe every person deserves to feel loved, seen, and valued. I want every student and staff member to know they are important and that they matter. It only takes one caring adult to change the trajectory of a child's life, helping them find success, confidence, and purpose. Being that supportive presence for others is my passion and my calling.” – Kelly W.