The Lincoln County School District (LCSD) Nursing Department, guided by the principle that “Healthy Kids Learn Better,” provides comprehensive health services to ensure the well-being and academic success of all students across the district.

LCSD’s team of four registered nurses, strategically assigned to the West, North, East, and South areas of the district, delivers essential health services and emergency response training. At the beginning of each school year, all staff receive training in medication administration, including emergency procedures for glucagon and epi pen administration. Throughout the year, nurses conduct in-person CPR and First Aid certification training for staff members.

“Our nursing team goes beyond basic health services,” said Mollie Vance, BSN, RN, Nationally Certified School Nurse. “We work closely with families, staff, and community partners to create a safe and healthy learning environment for every student.”

The nursing department collaborates weekly with Service Coordinators, Health Aids, and Health Service Advocates through Healthy and Equitable teams to identify and address student health needs. When learning barriers are identified, nurses conduct thorough health assessments, review medical charts, and manage medications to ensure student safety and success.

For students requiring specialized care, the nursing team develops comprehensive health care plans and coordinates nursing accommodations within IEPs and 504 plans. These plans are created through careful collaboration between parents, teachers, and medical providers.

The department maintains vital partnerships with the Public Health Department, Samaritan Community Hospital, and the School Based Health Center. Nurses also provide classroom education on hygiene and sexual health, and participate in national health recognition events, such as Fentanyl Awareness campaigns.

“Our nurses delegate specific health care procedures to trained staff members for students with specialized needs, such as insulin administration or tube feeding,” added Vance. “This ensures continuous care and support throughout the school day.”

The dedication of school nurses to student health and academic success is being recognized statewide. The Oregon School Nurses Association (OSNA) is currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Oregon School Nurse or School Nurse Administrator of the Year award. This recognition highlights the crucial role school nurses play in student health and academic success. Nominations must be submitted by Friday, January 31, 2025. For nomination forms and guidelines, visit School Nurse/Nurse Administrator of the Year – Oregon School Nurses Association.