Certification and eduction requirements

[neenie109, ASN]

Hi,

Long time visitor to allnurses, but haven't posted in a long time. I have just recently returned to the nursing profession after four years as a stay at home mom and I'm currently working in assisted living and adult medical daycare. Both positions are per diem, both positions I have almost a year of employment at. I am interested in school nursing but not sure about if I can even think about this specialty with only an associate's degree. A friend suggested trying substitute school nursing to test the waters. Financially it's impossible for me to go back to school right now for my BSN. I just need some realistic advice. Thank you!

[Windchaser22]

It really depends on your state statutes. Definitely sub to see if you would like it. In my state you can sub as an ADN RN but not work full time unless you have a bachelors and certification from the department of education. Good luck.

[GdBSN, RN]

It really depends on the district. Some districts around me will accept an ADN RN, while others have strict requirements of requiring a BSN. Good luck!!!

[kidzcare]

Other posters are correct! Completely dependent on state/district.

I had an ADN when I started in school nursing. In IL, you do not need a BSN or certification to work as a school nurse. BUT the pay is terrible unless you become certified (which in itself is very expensive).

[neenie109, ASN]

I am in New Jersey, which seems to only allow BSN nurses to get school nurse certification. Thank you for your replies!

[Windchaser22]

Im in Jersey too. Note that the legislature passed a law today reinstating previous more rigorous requirements. 30 credits post baccalaureate plus clinical time for the instructional cert and 21 plus clinical for the non-instructional. Which county do you live near? Everyone needs subs. Some districts are now paying $200/day.