Today is National School Nurse Day, and we proudly honor and celebrate the unshaken commitment, compassion, and expertise of Cobb County Schools' 160 professional nurses. These driven professionals are more than caregivers—they are the heart of our schools, loyally working behind the scenes to ensure that every staff member and student from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade has the support they need to stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
National School Nurse Day was established in 1972 to foster a better understanding of the role school nurses play in the educational setting. It is celebrated on the Wednesday of National Nurses Week, which is recognized May 6th -12th each year.
"To our 160 extraordinary school nurses: Thank you!" said Melanie Bales, Cobb's District School Nurse Administrator. "With skillful hands and kind hearts, you supervise everything from daily health needs to critical emergencies, becoming trusted allies to students, families, and staff alike."
Susan Hynes (left) with Melody (KSU Nursing student)Stories pour in from all over the District about how our nursing heroes have acted quickly while identifying urgent needs and emergencies. Susan Hynes at Lassiter HS discerned a staff member presenting with stroke-like symptoms and activated the EMS system immediately; her invaluable assessment skills expedited the staff member's advanced medical care, and we are thankful to share that she has made a full recovery.
Janis BodleyJanis Bodley at Sprayberry HS had a traumatic emergency on campus that she responded to with the utmost professional care and saved a student’s life. CCSD recognizes her as a “HERO AMONG US.”
Brenda Kelley at Russell ES demonstrated the incredible impact of her training when she assessed a staff member who was in medical distress. Trusting her instincts and clinical expertise, she provided immediate care and coordinated EMS, all while remaining composed and reassuring. Thanks to her professionalism and quick response, this staff member received the urgent care he needed and has made a full recovery. These powerful moments remind us just how critical school nurses are—not only for students but for the entire school community.
Cristina McEverOur school nurses are uniquely trained to balance clinical knowledge with emotional sensitivity. Whether administering medication, tending to chronic conditions, or responding to sudden illnesses or injuries, their calm and capable presence reassures students and staff in moments of distress. Beyond physical care, they also provide emotional support, counseling, and health education, helping students build confidence in managing their own well-being. Their ability to listen, comfort, and guide is a powerful testament to the compassion they bring to every interaction. Cristina McEver at Daniell MS goes beyond routine care to build individualized relationships, often finding creative ways to make her students feel seen, safe, and supported. She noticed a reluctant student who needed to visit the clinic daily, so she eased the discomfort by playing the student’s favorite music during each visit. This small but mighty gesture transformed the routine into something familiar and comforting, helping the student feel more relaxed and welcome. The true heart of school nursing shines in these quiet, personalized moments.
Shannon VanceIn a world where children face increasing health challenges, school nurses stand as vital protectors of student wellness. They are vigilant advocates for health equity, ensuring that every child—regardless of background—has access to the care and resources they need. By promoting healthy habits, preventing the spread of illness, and identifying early signs of more serious conditions, school nurses help create a safe and nurturing environment that allows students to thrive. Shannon Vance at Pebblebrook HS exemplifies the dedication and organization it takes to support multiple students with chronic conditions. Her structured and thoughtful system allows these students to confidently monitor, track, and manage their daily health needs. More than just overseeing their care, she actively empowers them to understand their condition, ask questions, and gradually take ownership of their routines, all under her guidance.
Ollie DavisThe impact of a school nurse reaches far beyond the walls of the health office. Their collaboration with educators, counselors, and parents is essential in supporting students' academic success. When children are physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy, they are more engaged in learning and better prepared to achieve their goals. School nurses play an integral role in this success, often serving as a crucial link between health and education. Ollie Davis at Belmont Hills ES generously volunteers her time to support the school’s Science Club, specifically coaching the Disease Detection Team for the Science Olympiad competition. With her medical background and real-world experience, she brings invaluable insight to the students, helping them understand the complex concepts in microbiology, pathology, and epidemiology. Her mentorship not only strengthens their scientific knowledge but also inspires curiosity and passion for health-related careers—her involvement is both meaningful and transformative.
At Mableton ES, Kimberly Churchill was moved to turn an unexpected traumatic health event for her students into a powerful learning opportunity. She created a Junior First Responder Club to equip students with CPR/AED training as well as age-appropriate knowledge about medical conditions, injuries, and emergencies they might encounter at school or in everyday life. She empowers students to respond with confidence, empathy, and understanding through interactive lessons and hands-on activities. These efforts help demystify health crises but also promote a culture of preparedness and compassion, giving students the tools to support one another and stay calm in the face of the unexpected.
Rachel Bryant at Hayes ES saved a student's life by using her excellent assessment skills, critical thinking, and calm, reassuring actions during an emergency to administer the student's EpiPen after they ingested a snack with possible peanuts.
Our school nurses are committed to continuous growth and professional excellence. Their achievements and certifications reflect a deep dedication to providing the highest standard of care to our students and school communities. Many nurses acquire CPR Instructor certification and lead their schools to obtain Heart Safe School status through Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Project S.A.V.E program. We want to recognize Melanie Cristelli at Campbell HS, Emilee Reynolds at Hollydale ES, Sandra Colquett at Frey ES, Angie Becker at Still ES, Maureen Jardin at Cheatham Hill ES, Rhonda Weygandt at Due West ES, Amy Matthews at Lewis ES, Angie Mitchell at Varner ES, Tiffany Rawls at Nickajack ES (she trained ALL her staff as a CPR Instructor).
The following nurses were nominated and/or received Individual Classified Employees of the Year: Heather Sheahan at King Springs ES, Cricket Randall at Pickett’s Mill ES, and Vanessa Moulthrop at Dickerson MS. Several of our school nurses were recognized by PTA for Outstanding School Nurse: Kelly Everden at Tritt ES and Amanda Myers at Sope Creek ES.
The Student Health Services and Support Leadership team plays a vital role in the success and well-being of our entire district, serving 106,000+ students and more than 110 school campuses. This leadership team of eight RN’s ensures that consistent, high-quality care is delivered across every campus. They expertly balance the complex demands of student health needs, while providing essential guidance, mentorship, and encouragement to our school nurses. In addition, they lead the implementation of health policies, emergency protocols, and wellness initiatives that keep our schools safe in response to evolving challenges. Thank you to Melanie Bales, MSN, BSN, RN, CMS our Assistant Director of Student Support – District School Nurse Administrator, to Area 1 Consulting Nurse Shannon Keely, to Area 2 Consulting Nurse Brooke Latham, to Area 3 Consulting Nurse Jeannie Jankowski, to Area 4 Consulting Nurse Ginger Wallsinger, to Area 5 Consulting Nurse Jennifer Hanlan, to Jacey Stafford, Itinerant School Nurse and to Jennifer Davis, Itinerant School Nurse. You each serve as role models through your dependability, leadership, support, and steadfast advocacy.
"Your dedication, skill, and care make a difference in the lives of thousands of students every single day. You are trusted leaders, compassionate healers, and essential members of our school community. On this National School Nurse Day, we honor your service and celebrate the lasting impact you have on generations of learners," Ms. Bales concluded appreciatively.
