EdLeader Podcast - Update from the School House with School Nurse Jessica Shearin

In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Carteret County Public Schools School Nurse Jessica Shearin to discuss the work of helping to keep students, teachers, and staff members safe in schools. Nurse Shearin works tirelessly in helping to keep the White Oak Elementary School family in Cape Carteret, North Carolina safe and healthy. From Wellness Checks at school entrances to reminders about wearing a mask to helping to check that the school is properly disinfected, to contact tracing, School Nurses have seen their responsibilities expand dramatically. Their expertise is being called on as EdLeaders face decisions they have never previously had to make.

Mrs. Shearin graduated from Barton College in Wilson NC in 2005, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. She started in school nursing in 2010 and obtained her National Certification in School Nursing in 2013. She knew early on in nursing school that she had a strong interest in pediatrics and young adult health. She says that she truly enjoys working with students, their families, and staff members in managing chronic and acute health conditions. Mrs. Shearin says, "School nursing gives you a unique opportunity to be a special part of some really amazing people's lives in what is often the most important time in their lives. As medical needs in schools increase each year, I take great pride in providing care to our students that exceed expectations and gives parents comfort knowing, while their child is at school, I will do everything I can to ensure they are well cared for!" The kindness, care, and attention to detail that she provides each day make a positive impact on student lives.

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction - Lighting our Way Forward: North Carolina's Guidebook for Reopening Public Schools - Link

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services - Strong Schools NC Public Health Toolkit (K-12) - Link