ASN - can I get a job as a school nurse?

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Next year, the school nurse at a small rural school near me will be retiring. I have already let them know last year my intent to apply and they were very excited about it. They asked me to volunteer to get trained and attend training with the school nurse this year. I would need to take time off from my M-F job as the Community Health nurse (also a manager) in a small rural town. I love my job, but school nursing is my dream job. Education + nursing + kids = perfect for me :)

I was just told today from the school nurse that the one requirement is that I have a BSN. I was heartbroken :(. I would not be able to get my BSN by next fall, no matter what accelerated courses I take.

Has anyone come across a situation where they've made an exception to this rule? I would have 2 years as a Community Health RN under my belt by the time I would start and would be wiling to sign a contract to get my BSN within 2 years. I am used to wearing many hats and working within a very constrained budget (we are also a FQHC) I am willing to present to the Board of Education if need be.

Has anyone heard of or experienced an exception to this rule? I have hope, hopefully...

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I will be starting as a school nurse this fall. I graduated with my associates degree this may but I am starting a bsn program at the same time I will be working at the school. This school has hired associate degree nurses before as long as they are in a bachelors program. Good Luck!

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Specializes in School Nursing, Public Health, Home Care.

Depends on your State law, public vs. private school, working under the supervision of another nurse, etc.

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Thanks Zoey!

I am in Colorado, public school, and I would be the only nurse for the elementary, middle and high school.

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Specializes in School Nursing, Public Health, Home Care.

Guess you have to check Colorado law. That wouldn't work in WI, have to be BSN.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Many states require RN-BSN + post grad school nursing credentials. RN-ASN in these states may work as a substitute school nurse.

There are other states where LPNs and any level RN (Diploma, ASN, BSN) may work in the role/title of school nurse.

Check your state department of education as in many states this is the entity that list the minimum credential for school nurse & substitute school nurse.

Good luck

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In New Jersey, you can be a School Nurse without BSN/School Nurse Certificate in Non Public Schools only. I have Associates Degree and am School Nurse in non public Christian School! Good Luck!

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