School Nurse Superpower Nominees

I am honored to nominate Vicki McDade for recognition during National Nurses Week. Although we no longer work together on the same campus, I had the privilege of working alongside Vicki for 16 years and I can confidently say she is one of the most dedicated and compassionate school nurses I have ever known. During our time together, Vicki consistently went above and beyond for every student she served. She is far more than a school nurse-she is a source of comfort, trust and stability for students, staff and families. Vicki has a unique ability to make every child feel safe, heard and cared for, no matter the situation. What continues to impress me is that her impact has only grown. Vicki now serves in leadership roles as both a mentor and a small group nurse team leader, where she supports and guides other nurses while continuing to provide exceptional care to her students. Her leadership is rooted in experience, compassion and a genuine desire to help others succeed. One of the most powerful examples of Vicki's impact is the lasting relationships she builds with families. There is one student in particular who moved away to Chicago and is now in middle school, and Vicki remains in contact with the family. She was a safe place for this student during a critical time in his life and that connection has continued even after he left her campus. That kind of lasting influence speaks volumes about the trust and care she provides every single day. Her clinical knowledge is exceptional, but what truly sets Vicki apart is her heart. Whether she is managing complex medical needs, supporting students with chronic conditions or simply offering reassurance to a child in need, she handles it all with professionalism and grace. Vicki's "superpower" is her ability to combine expert nursing care with deep, authentic compassion. She doesn't just care for students-she truly changes lives. There is no one more deserving of this recognition. Vicki McDade represents the very best of school nursing and any campus is incredibly fortunate to have her.