As the August sun sets into September, the stores are filled with shades of orange and black, adorned with pumpkin designs, leaving no doubt that fall is fast approaching. For some of us, this change merely signifies we’ll soon be crunching through the leaves. However, for others, the shifting season carries the excitement of a new classroom, fresh school supplies, and new students to nurture and smile upon. It also means new teachers to collaborate with and new signs on the walls.
For school nurses, September marks the beginning of an energized beginning. School nursing is a unique specialty that differs from home care, hospital nursing, nursing homes, or any other area of nursing. There’s a special charm in the school system, in helping children grow, being their pillar of strength, the adult who blinks away their challenges and believes their successes. But what does a typical day for a school nurse look like, and what opportunities does school nursing present?
The school nurse day & schedule
One of the most appealing aspects of school nursing is the predictable hours. Days typically start at 8 am and end at 3 pm or 4 pm, depending on the school. This schedule allows for an organized day where a lot can still be accomplished in the afternoon. Not all tasks are identical; some students may need assistance with bus routes or to be picked up, while in other cases, you’ll meet the student at school.
School nurse job description
What do school nurses technically do? School nurses work one-on-one with children, accompanying them to school and caring for those with conditions such as seizures, diabetes, G-tubes, tracheostomies, and more. They ensure that these children are safe throughout the school day, allowing them to learn and achieve great things.
The school nurse salary
Besides the delighted children, someone else will thank you a lot: your purse! School nurses typically earn significantly more than those in other job settings, even in comparison to prestigious hospital positions. Additionally, hospital nurses typically work three 12-hour shifts, which limits their workweek to 36 hours weekly. School nurses mostly work an 8-hour day, often totaling 40 hours per week, which further increases their earnings.
School nursing jobs benefits
What are fringe benefits in comparison to the job you love? But let’s get real. When benefits like work-life balance, flexibility, and more partner with a position that works perfectly for you, they certainly clinch the deal.
The challenges: Finding school nursing jobs near me
A nursing shortage is affecting many specialties where nurses are needed. Interestingly, though, there are many nurses competing for school nursing positions. White Glove Community Care serves hundreds of children each year, and we currently have openings for school nurse jobs, so you are welcome to apply for school nursing jobs in local schools.
How to become a school nurse
If you have an affable personality and a passion for nurturing children, you have the soft skills to apply. As a school nurse, the Board of Education has specific requirements. White Glove will guide you through the process of meeting these specifications for school nurse jobs.
- One or more years of RN experience
- Fingerprinting through the state
- CDC concussion training certificate
- Child abuse training certificate
Looking for RN school nurse jobs?
Come and apply! Spreading kindness and helping children reach their full potential is one of the most pleasing jobs you can find. Join us in crafting big futures for those little champions!
