The Part Time School Nurse assists the Head Nurse in the development, implementation and management of a coordinated school health program, which is consistent with The Rivers School Health Office philosophy and with the Massachusetts guidelines and regulations governing school health and nursing. This multifaceted role within The Rivers School supports the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of all school community members. The Part Time School Nurse educates and supports the students, faculty, and staff regarding matters of health, wellness, injury prevention, risk management and delegation of medication administration. The Part Time School Nurse may be asked to accompany students on field trips as needed during the school and be available during graduation.
Rivers is a thriving educational institution with an innovative new head of school leading our community to co-create the next chapter of success through our next strategic plan. Less than 20 miles from Boston, Rivers serves 530+ students in grades 6-12, over 30% of whom self-identify as BIPOC. Athletics compliments both a rigorous academic program and a robust arts program that includes the well-renowned River School Conservatory. Across all of these interconnected areas, students are encouraged to find their passions and pursue them vigorously, with caring educators empowering them to become the best version of themselves.
Essential Job Functions:
Nursing Responsibilities
Ability to originate, update, and/or monitor health care, maintain records, and implement the coordinated school health program and Standing Orders.
Has working knowledge of HIPAA and FERPA and how they apply to student medical records.
Oversees and provides direct care to students to maximize health and wellness within the school community.
Works in collaboration with consulting physician. Work is self-directed but performed in accordance with the policies and procedures and state law regarding nursing practice.
Implement federal, state and local health regulations.
Demonstrate clinical competency in school nursing practice: Recognize changes in student’s physical and mental condition and take appropriate action. Adapt nursing care interventions to the student’s physical condition, emotional status, and developmental level.
Identify students with chronic health care issues and students at-risk for health related problems. Initiate and coordinate a plan of care for these students, collaborating with parents and primary care provider, as well as teachers and coaches as necessary and with parental permission.
Provide care to students with chronic, acute and emergent health care needs based on the individual’s condition and, when needed, in consultation with school physician, while meeting the standards of school nursing practice.
Maintain student’s confidential records of immunizations, medication administration, insurance, health findings, and other relevant health data.
Serve as a resource person on health-related topics for school staff as mandated by law and at other times.
Contribute to health education programs for students as needed.
Identify community health resources and guide students, faculty and staff in their use.
Maintain students' health records in accordance with state law.
Collaborate with the local health department on matters of public health.
Order and maintain security of school health supplies and medications.
Administer prescribed and over the counter medications per standing orders.
Review student health forms prior to the start of each year to ensure that all requirements have been met (physical exams, immunizations and medical treatment/medical authorization forms)
Secure and review Physician Care Plans for all students who have life-threatening allergies and/or chronic health conditions.
Responds to health related issues, providing crisis intervention when necessary, by communicating directly with appropriate division head and/or school counselor as needed.
Work as a second nurse during the summer at Camp Nonesuch.
Administrative Responsibilities
Review training with trip leaders before domestic and travel abroad programs.
Conduct annual training on Blood Borne Pathogens at the start of school.
Conduct EpiPen annual training at the start of the school year for faculty and staff.
Work together with other members of the Wellness Team and student resource teams.
Coordinate and prepare supplies, documentation and all necessary permission forms for field trips during the school year.
Other
Participate in continuing education programs to supplement knowledge/skill necessary for meeting the needs of the students, faculty and staff.
Maintain current CPR /AED certification through American Heart Association
Ability to be effective and work well with adolescents
Ability to relate to one's peer group, parents and students
Ability to accept supervision and guidance
Proficient computer skills/applications for electronic records and communication
Other tasks as assigned
Equipment Used:
In order to complete the required job duties, the Part Time School Nurse must have a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, nursing databases, and student systems. Magnus' knowledge is highly desired.
Qualifications:
Minimum Education and Experience:
The Part Time School Nurse will be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited college or university is required. Current CPR certification required. A strong background in pediatric/adolescent care and health counseling required.
Required Skills:
Strong listening skills
Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple projects at the same time
Attention to detail
Ability to work collaborative
Excellent customer service skills
Initiative
Respectful to all members of the Rivers Community
Rivers encourages interest from candidates who will enrich the diversity of identity, experience, and perspectives among our professional and school community. Rivers offers BIPOC affinity, LGBTQ+ affinity, and white allyship spaces for professionals, as well as institutional professional development to support and enrich our work around equity and access.
Research shows that people belonging to structurally marginalized groups often only apply to jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. As no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply if you feel that most of the above qualifications reflect your experience and expertise.
The Rivers School is a coeducational, college preparatory day school for students in grades 6 through 12. Located in Weston, Massachusetts, Rivers challenges students to attain their highest levels of excellence in academics, arts, and athletics. Visit our website at www.rivers.org for more information.