Every day across Pennsylvania, nurses make it possible for students with mental and physical health challenges to succeed at school and for patients everywhere to get the care they need.

During National Nurses Week May 6-12, take a moment to say thank you to the certified school nurses, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses serving in our schools and health care facilities.

The Pennsylvania State Education Association is proud to represent many of these talented professionals, including school nurses like Maureen Callas, who is making a difference in the lives of hundreds of students in the Montour School District.

I’ve seen firsthand what it’s like to have a student in the midst of a health crisis. I cannot express the gratitude I felt when the school nurse arrived on the scene. Nurses are there in emergencies and every day to make sure students are healthy so they can be in the classroom learning.

Our schools need more school nurses to meet students’ growing health needs. That’s why PSEA is advocating for a state budget that makes this possible.

This week, join me in saying thank you to our hardworking and compassionate nurses. They are helping make our schools and communities safer and healthier for everyone.

Rich Askey

Harrisburg

The writer is president of the PSEA.

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