School Nurse Superpower Nominees

I am honored to nominate Lisa Rice from Bellwood District 88 for this recognition. Lisa is a true "breath of fresh air" and perfectly epitomizes the modern school nurse. Her "superpower" is her proactive presence and community connection. While many nurses remain tethered to their offices, Lisa is a constant, visible force in her school. When her office is clear, she is often seen walking the halls or visiting classrooms, ensuring she is accessible to staff and students alike. This visibility creates a sense of safety and care that permeates the building. Lisa’s impact begins the moment the school year starts. She proactively introduces herself to parents, providing a clear roadmap of how they can partner with her to keep their children healthy. Because of this outreach, parents and children don't just know where the nurse’s office is—they know and trust Lisa. Beyond her incredible bedside manner, she is dedicated to clinical excellence. She consistently broadens her knowledge base by taking classes to stay current with evidence-based nursing practices. This commitment ensures that our students receive the highest standard of care backed by the latest medical research. Lisa Rice is more than a healthcare provider; she is a vital leader in our school community, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor.