Job Description:
Title: Substitute School Nurse (2026-2027 School Year)
Position Purpose
Provide assessment, screening, planning, intervention, evaluation, counseling, management, and referral services related to student health needs to reduce absences, support learning, and promote a healthy school environment.
Essential Functions
- Collaborate with healthcare providers, parents, staff, and community agencies to ensure continuity of care for students.
- Support and assist in maintaining a comprehensive school health program.
- Collect and review student health information for compliance with immunization requirements and Board policies.
- Conduct health screenings, immunization clinics, and vision/hearing testing as required.
- Provide nursing assessment and care for ill or injured students, including first aid and referrals.
- Evaluate student health needs and update care plans accordingly.
- Implement Board policies related to exclusion and readmission for communicable diseases.
- Maintain accurate health records in compliance with state, federal, and Board requirements.
- Develop and implement Individualized Health Care Plans (IHPs) as needed and coordinate with IEP/504 teams.
- Provide nursing interventions to promote health, prevent illness, and support rehabilitation.
- Participate in school-based teams (e.g., crisis teams, PPT, 504 meetings).
- Provide health counseling and education to students, families, and staff.
- Communicate student health needs to parents, staff, and medical providers as appropriate.
- Provide training on emergency procedures (e.g., Heimlich maneuver, bloodborne pathogens, emergency response).
- Contribute to reports and data collection related to school health services.
- Provide health-related assessments for staff as requested.
- Notify appropriate parties regarding student illness or injury per Board policy.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Equipment Used
- Medical equipment including glucose monitors, stethoscopes, thermometers, and blood pressure devices
- Computer systems and standard office software
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of nursing practice, medical terminology, anatomy, illness/injury care, and public health principles
- Ability to assess and provide care for students in a school setting
- Strong communication skills with staff, families, and healthcare professionals
- Basic math skills for medication and health-related calculations
- Proficiency with computers and software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email, internet)
- Ability to problem-solve and work with diverse student populations, including students with special needs
- Ability to follow medical guidance and coordinate with supervisors, physicians, and school staff
- Strong written and verbal reporting skills
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships
Safety Requirements
- Complies with all nursing safety standards, OSHA regulations, and applicable state/federal laws
- Follows Board policies regarding bloodborne pathogens and health-related procedures
Travel Requirements
- May require travel between school buildings
Physical and Work Environment
- School-based environment
- Possible exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and medical supplies
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Biology, Chemistry, or related field (health-related coursework required)
- Master's degree preferred
- Must meet Connecticut school nurse certification requirements (CT Reg. Sec. 10-212-2)
- Experience with pediatric or school health nursing preferred
License/Certification
- Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in Connecticut
- Current CPR certification