While most of us know a healthcare schedule of a grueling 7-7 or 8-8, there are those nurses who work a tidy 8am to 3pm routine. These are not the only differences between nurses working in a hospital facility and the school setting. According to a recent independent survey conducted by the White Glove Placement Empowerment Department, over 50 school nurses were interviewed to gain insight into their experiences working in schools. The survey revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many nurses expressing high levels of job satisfaction. The list of advantages of their work was extensive, while very few drawbacks were mentioned. Let’s go ahead and explore the insides of school nurse life!

A fresh back-to-school season

When the kids show up on the first day of school with their neatly tucked and starched shirts, their excitement for the new school year becomes infectious. After a summer filled with fun and excitement, it’s nice to take a break from spontaneity and embrace the structure of September. You don’t have to be a school nurse to feel the shift, but the school setting affects you uniquely.

Those Hours!

One of the most appealing aspects of school nursing is the predictable hours. Days typically start at 8am and end at 3pm or 4pm, depending on the school. This means school nurses can enjoy daylight even during the darkest winter days. The best part? These hours are consistent and reliable, providing a level of stability that’s rare in the healthcare industry.

We Stress Less

School nurses often report a better work-life balance than traditional nursing roles. School nurses consider themselves fortunate to work in a less stressful and more supportive environment while still having a positive impact on the lives of others.

Connection With Pupils

School nurses have the unique experience of consistently working with the same group of medically fragile students throughout the year. This continuity allows them to build strong bonds with the students, who often feel comfortable seeking physical care, emotional support, and guidance from the school nurse.

Flexibility

During your lunch hour as a school nurse, choosing when to take a break is up to you. Sure, you need to use responsible judgment to select a time when no emergencies are likely to occur, yet you are not micromanaged on when or how to take your lunch break.

Full Year Stability of Work

Once you sign a contract for a year as a school nurse, you can rest assured that your work schedule is stable for the next 10 months. There’s no need to worry about contract renewals or unit changes, providing a sense of security and stability that is often hard to find in other nursing roles.

Last but so not least! Off in the Summer

Definitely the winner of the bucket! School nurses look forward to the end of another school year, and they are excited to enjoy a well-deserved and restful summer break!

We thank all White Glove School Nurses for their input on what life a school nurse is all about!

See what they say

“Just love every aspect of the job. School nursing is collaborating with teachers, parents, doctors, and students. You use your common sense and communication to bring it all together. It is gratifying to know you are keeping fragile students safe.”

Mary Walker, RN

“When I started school nursing, I noticed how stressful my previous job at a rehabilitation has been. Building a relationship with the children is my favorite part, and it is so cute when they invite me to any events in the classroom. The short hours are also a huge benefit. Frankly, I was still considering whether to continue for the school year, but as I am pointing out the pros to you, I cannot see myself leaving such a great job.

Serin Ahmad, RN

“School Nursing is dynamic. More than helping pupils with their physical ailments, I feel like a loving aunt to the student. They feel comfortable walking into my office and discussing any concerns. Truly looking forward to the back-to-school freshness.”

Patricia Rogers, RN

You are still on the ball to make school nursing your next stop for the 2024-2025 school year. Sign up to become a school nursing with all those benefits to boot!