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NASN RESOLUTION
Access to a School Nurse
Whereas, every student deserves access to a school nurse; and
Whereas, there are approximately 60,000 registered nurses in the United States public school system who care for more than 52 million students; and
Whereas, research has shown that school districts with adequate nursing coverage have fewer absences, a decreased drop out rate, and higher test scores; and
Whereas, the professional registered school nurse is a vital part of insuring the optimum health and well-being of all students and staff by offering health information, health instruction, and quality health services; and
Whereas, Title V funds from the (Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) can be used to fund school nursing services; and
Whereas, the United States Supreme Court ruling in Cedar Rapids Community School District vs. Garrett F. held that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires school districts to provide nursing services when such supportive services are necessary in order for students to access and benefit from their educational program; and
Whereas, in the event of any emergency affecting schools in the United States, school nurses would be among the first medical professionals to respond, thus voluntarily placing themselves at increased risk; and
Whereas, the Asthma and Allergy Network, Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recognize that the need exists for a full-time registered nurse all day, every day for each school;
Be it resolved that school districts should provide a full-time registered nurse all day, every day for each school.
Adopted: June 2003 | 
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