Dear Editor: Did you know that public school nurses in Hudson County possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree, with approximately 20 percent possessing a Master’s Degree and nearly 25 percent are enrolled in a Master’s Program? In addition to the School Nurse Certification, many school nurses are certified in other health-related fields including community health, critical care, pediatrics and health education. Did you know the average ratio of school nurses to students in Hudson County is 1 (nurse) per 800 (students)? Did you know a school nurse may see and treat an average of 75 students per day? Although school nursing is a significant part of the community, it is perhaps the least understood form of practice. This stems from people’s own experience. Many believe school nurses only apply band-aids and give out ice packs. This may have been true decades ago, but with changing times, the role of the school nurse has become more diverse. This is particularly true in Hudson County because school nurses in this area serve a culturally diverse transient population. Students in Hudson County are as unique as the problems they present. With the passing of a public law, Administrative Code Title 6-A Chapter 14 students with special needs are permitted to attend school in regular classrooms. As a result, school nurses must be flexible and innovative in order to respond to students’ needs. No two days are ever the same and an average day is unpredictable. The day may start with simple medical physicals and other mandated screenings such as mantoux testing, vision, hearing, height/weight/blood pressure and scoliosis screenings, and may progress to medical emergencies, such as exacerbation of asthma, seizure episodes and school injuries such as lacerations, head injuries, fractures, etc. The school nurse is also part of a team that addresses drug-related issues, teenage pregnancy, suicide ideation and school violence. The school nurse ensures the safety of the students, as well as the staff, through teaching, counseling and reinforcement of health-promoting behaviors. As we move into the 21st century, school nurses will continue to address trends and issues that affect the school community. Our goals will include increasing community awareness and participation in addressing the ever-changing health needs of the school population, continuing to educate students about prevention of injuries and utilization of community resources. School nurses must work hand-in-hand with school administrators, faculty and parents to ensure the health and safety of the student body. As we celebrate National School Nurses Day on January 26, 2000, we would like to thank and recognize all Hudson County school nurses for their care, expertise and dedication to the school community. We would also like to thank the Hudson County School Nurses Association officers, especially President Rita McKeon, RN, CSN, MS and Treasurer Marjorie Garrison, RN, CSN, MS for reintroducing Hudson County to the New Jersey State School Nurses Association. Jane L. Galapon, RN, CSN Nancy Ramos, RN, CSN