School Nurse Corps
School Nurse Corps is a part of Student Support Services
The School Nurse Corps assists in the pursuit of student academic success by supporting and expanding public school districts’ capacity to provide a safe and healthy learning environment and optimal health for each student. The School Nurse Corps is a statewide program legislatively funded to provide direct nursing services to school districts with the greatest need, based upon specific criteria. School nurses provide emergency care, mental health support, and educational opportunities for students, staff, families and the community. School nurses promote health by managing chronic disease, preventing and controlling communicable diseases through education and access or referrals to health care providers.
Services
- Provide ongoing training and support based upon the priorities of School Nurse Corps program for school nurses, in districts directly funded
- Provide leadership in the delivery of school-based health services
- Provide regional school health services through technical assistance, consultation, and professional development
- Provide and assist in data collection to evaluate the impact of nursing interventions on student education and health outcomes
Benefits
- Provide a safe environment for students with health care needs allowing them to remain engaged in school activities
- Enhance the quality of student health services in Washington state schools by means of the regional Educational Service Districts’ SNC infrastructure through technical assistance, consultation, resources, and professional development
- Promote ongoing partnerships with health and education agencies and organizations
- Serve as a liaison between PSESD and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction regarding trends, issues, and needs
Criteria to Determine Greatest Need
- District Class size with priority given to Class II school districts
- Rural isolation and access to health care
- Number of children with health conditions, medical treatments, and medications
- District financial capacity
- Community issues such as the percentage of free and/or reduced meals