Alpine School District celebrates School Nurse Day on May 6. The event highlights the critical support these professionals provide across regular and special education schools to ensure students remain healthy and ready to learn.
Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been celebrated on the Wednesday of National Nurses Week (May 6-12) to recognize school nurses and foster a better understanding of their essential role in the educational setting.
“Our students cannot learn if they are not healthy,” said Kim Lowe, nurse director for Alpine School District. "Our school nurses are dedicated to the health and safety of all of our students.”
Alpine School District has around 30 school nurses who serve students throughout the community. Of these, 27 nurses are assigned to regular education schools, while six specialized nurses support students in special education programs.
School Nurse Day is a time to recognize the vital role school nurses play in creating a safe, supportive environment where students can learn and thrive,” said Julie Van Dijk, principal at Aspen Elementary. “Our school nurse, Bianka Rangel, goes far beyond basic care. She truly knows our students and takes the time to listen to every concern and responds with reassurance and kindness.”
According to Lowe, all school nurses in the district are licensed, registered school nurses, and many of them hold master’s degrees in nursing. They are all certified in CPR, first aid, and “Stop the Bleed.”
Nurses also provide ongoing preventative education in the classroom, covering topics such as hygiene, nutrition and substance misuse prevention. They facilitate essential screenings for vision and dental care, connecting families with the resources they need.
In addition to physical health, school nurses support mental health needs and collaborate with families to design systems where students can reach their full potential. For many students, the school nurse may be the only healthcare provider they have access to due to socioeconomic factors.
“I appreciate the opportunity to help students to have their health needs met at school so that they can learn more effectively," said school nurse Carissa Jensen. “Healthy students are better learners!”
“Our nurse’s positive presence is felt throughout the school,” Van Dijk said. “She consistently goes the extra mile, whether it’s stepping in during emergencies or showing appreciation to others.”
“School nurses play a role in advancing our Vision for Learning,” she added. “By supporting student health and well-being, they help ensure students are ready to engage in the classroom.”
Jensen hopes this recognition of school nurses nationwide helps parents understand how they can strengthen the partnership.
“School nurses are there to help your students succeed through better health,” she said. “Please reach out to your school nurse if your student has a health issue, we are there to help!”