Implementing new programs

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Hi all!

This is my second year as an elementary school nurse. My principal would really like me to focus on "enhancing" the nursing program this year. (I told him this would be next to impossible seeing 70+ kids a day, out of 250, so he gave me full permission to send out an email to teachers about appropriate nurse visits. He is very supportive). We have quite a few programs right now including an outside agency that donates their time for vision screenings, dentist visits, programs to help our homeless kids get clothing, A free sneaker program for one entire grade, a healthy snack program, and a few others. I am curious if any of you have implemented any other kinds of programs. I am feeling stuck thinking of "ways to enhance the program". Right now, I also teach grade 5 G&D. We have a high rate of low-income kiddos, special needs, and kids who are homeless. Any thoughts would be much appreciated!

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Wow, I wish I had someone to come in and do my vision screens, LOL. It sounds like a pretty comprehensive program. Do you do any healthy lifestyle teaching like nutrition and exercise? I host a family wellness night in the Spring every year and get local businesses to donate gift cards to serve healthy snacks, teach a zumba class, promote dental health and give out supplies, etc. Maybe organize something like that?

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Specializes in Pediatrics Retired.

So if your principal wants you to enhance your program what areas did he indicate need enhancing? What is the goal; from what to what?

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Specializes in NCSN.
So if your principal wants you to enhance your program what areas did he indicate need enhancing? What is the goal; from what to what?

^This.

Is he worried about the number of sick kids and wants more hand hygiene programs done? Is their concern for over all health and wellness? Is there concern over parent comprehension of medical needs?

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He was not specific... LOL

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The program that comes does K, 1, 3. We are lucky to have them!

The Family Wellness Night is a great idea!!!!

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Specializes in Pediatrics Retired.
He was not specific... LOL

Were the teachers given the same request to enhance their education program?

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Good grief - it already sounds like you do an outstanding job with "enhancing" your schools health program. I wonder what else your principal has in mind.

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I would honestly ask him for some direction. Suggest the Family Wellness night and ask if there is anything else he wants you to focus on. Do you currently do a monthly newsletter? I send home "Notes from Nurse C" every few months that highlight a specific topic, as well as reminders of when to keep them home, season-specific info (sunscreen, layers for cooler weather, drinking enough water, etc.). There is a lot of free clip art online you can use to make it fun.

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Good grief - it already sounds like you do an outstanding job with "enhancing" your schools health program. I wonder what else your principal has in mind.

LOL.. I will have to get more direction.

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Were the teachers given the same request to enhance their education program?

Well that is a silly question ;-)

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I would honestly ask him for some direction. Suggest the Family Wellness night and ask if there is anything else he wants you to focus on. Do you currently do a monthly newsletter? I send home "Notes from Nurse C" every few months that highlight a specific topic, as well as reminders of when to keep them home, season-specific info (sunscreen, layers for cooler weather, drinking enough water, etc.). There is a lot of free clip art online you can use to make it fun.

Thanks so much for the suggestions! I will be starting newsletters this year :)

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