On May 7, 2008, the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) will celebrate
the nursing profession and the specialty of school nursing. This year's theme,
"School Nurses in Action: Transforming School Communities," is reflective of the
global impact school nurses have on the health and well-being of students. In
the U.S. alone, over 50,000 school nurses are actively transforming school
communities in limitless ways as they care for our nation's children. The
multiple roles of school nurses and the many services they provide makes them a
valuable school and community resource.
Annually, NASN announces national school nurse awardees that have exhibited
exceptional work throughout the year. The 2008 National School Nurse of the Year
is Rhoda Shepherd of Iowa, and the 2008 National School Nurse Administrator of
the Year is Carol Cochran of Oregon. Schools and communities are encouraged to
join with their school nurses in celebrating what they do on a daily basis to
keep kids healthy and ready to learn. Most states have also identified a "School
Nurse of the Year" and a "School Nurse Administrator of the Year" award winner
who have made a significant impact on students, staff, and the community.
The National Association of School Nurses has significantly contributed to the
health and educational success of children and youth by developing and providing
leadership to advance school nursing practices across the nation.
For more information on the award winners and National School Nurse Day, please
visit the NASN Web site at www.nasn.org
