Before School Program Nurse -Berlin Memorial

Berlin Memorial School is seeking a registered nurse to provide health services in the Before School Program from 7:00 am to 8:30 am, Monday through Friday, during the school year (August-June). This role offers the flexibility to job-share 2 or 3 days per week if desired. You will work with a small group of students in a school-based setting, supporting their health needs and academic success.

Clinical Setting

This is a school nursing position within a before-school program. You will report to the Before School Program Coordinator, Principal, Lead Nurse, and PPS Director. The role involves developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive school health program consistent with Massachusetts guidelines, regulations, and statutes governing nursing practice and school health, as well as local district policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Program Management

• Establish and manage a comprehensive school health program
• Promote positive safety practices within and outside of school and ensure an emergency plan is communicated to staff and students
• Organize and implement state-mandated programs including immunization surveillance and health-related screening programs, with referral, parent notice, and follow-up
• Maintain comprehensive and updated school health records on each student using the computer health program to document daily student interactions and health-related information
• Provide timely reports to administration as requested
• Develop, implement, and periodically review and revise written procedures for first aid, emergency management, medication administration, management of health records, mandated screenings, and other health and medical services
• Provide training for health screening volunteers, assistants, and substitute nurses
• Maintain written procedures for substitute nurses
• Budget, order, and maintain inventory of school nursing supplies and equipment

Nursing Services

• Demonstrate appropriate nursing assessment skills and collaboration in meeting the health needs of students and staff
• Provide direct nursing care including administering first aid for injuries, emergency medical care, toileting and personal care when needed, and management of acute and chronic illnesses
• Collaborate with parents, students, and their physicians to develop, implement, and annually update individualized health care plans
• Collect and record medically relevant information about the health and development of students and their families
• Provide medically prescribed interventions and over-the-counter medications per school physician standing orders
• Make home visits, complete home assessments, and present assessment results at team meetings for special education students as requested, with parent and administrative permission
• Recommend that students consult outside health care providers or appropriate school staff for evaluation and follow-up when indicated
• Assist students and families in finding medical care when requested
• Respond to student issues including abuse and neglect, substance use and abuse, family crisis, and other health-related concerns

Collaboration

• Serve as a member of the school's Crisis Intervention Team
• Work collaboratively with building staff, administration, and other nurses in the school system
• Participate in the planning and implementation of new health services
• Collaborate with other professionals, team members, and community providers in assessing, planning, and evaluating programs and school health activities to ensure coordinated services and prevent duplication

Health Education

• Identify the need for health education due to identified issues students are facing
• Provide or assist with health education topics such as nutrition, health and safety, and sex education
• Assume responsibility for in-service programs for school personnel on universal precautions, first aid, emergency care procedures, and current health issues
• Act as an educational resource to staff on health and medical issues

Professional Practice

• Apply appropriate nursing theory as the basis for decision-making in the school setting while expanding knowledge and skills in response to student health needs
• Demonstrate current knowledge of best practices in nursing
• Assume responsibility for continuing your own education and maintaining certifications
• Obtain consultation from the school physician or other experts as needed
• Maintain confidentiality of students, families, and staff

Required Qualifications

• Valid license to practice as a registered nurse from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Experience in child and pediatric health, community health, or relevant clinical nursing experience
• Current healthcare provider certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, and AED from a recognized provider
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to stand on your feet for long periods of time and move quickly to respond to a crisis

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as a school nurse
• DESE School Nurse certification

Schedule

• Hours: 7:00 am to 8:30 am
• Days: Monday through Friday when school is in session
• Work year: August through June
• Job-sharing available for 2 or 3 days per week

Compensation

• Salary: $60 per hour