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About

Becky Brown

Coordinator of Nursing Services

rebecca.brown@wpsk12.com

Massachusetts Department of Public Health Summer Safety Guidance

With summer approaching, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) reminds residents to take recommended commonsense precautions to keep everyone, especially young children and those working outside, safe this summer.

See the MA DPH article here:  https://www.mass.gov/news/massachusetts-department-of-public-health-offers-summer-safety-guidance-0

Preventing the Spread of Infections in K-12 Schools

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released consolidated, evidence-based guidance for preventing the spread of infections in K-12 schools. The guidance includes everyday actions that schools can take to prevent and control the spread of respiratory and stomach viruses and illnesses, such as influenza and norovirus, and bacterial illnesses, such as strep throat. The guidance is designed to maximize school attendance and its benefits for all students while also preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

The guidance for preventing the spread of infections in K-12 schools is consistent with current Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidance and DESE implementation. The two state agencies will continue to work together to keep students, staff, and family members safe and healthy.

Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice

The image is a framework for 21st-century school nursing practice, depicting various elements such as care coordination, community/public health, leadership, quality improvement, and students at the center, surrounded by standards of practice.
The image presents a framework for 21st-century school nursing practice, outlining various components such as care, leadership, quality, and community.

© National Association of School Nurses, 2015 - posted with permission

The mission of our comprehensive school health services is to maintain school health for all aspects of development so every student will succeed in school; physically, emotionally, intellectually & socially. In order to accomplish such optimal wellness, we must develop a strong link between parents, school, community resources and the school health office. The role of the school nurse has been expanded to include the following:

  • Illness assessment, referral & followup
  • Routine & emergency first aid treatment
  • Infection control
  • Environmental health & safety
  • Health education & consultation to students, staff & parents
  • Health counseling
  • Mandated screenings
  • Medication administration
  • Case management of children with special needs
  • Mental health screening & referral
  • Emergency care planning

You are strongly encouraged to communicate any health concerns/developments to your child's school nurse. Together we can help your child succeed.