On May 6, ESD 112 proudly joins schools across the country in celebrating National School Nurse Day, recognizing the dedicated professionals who care for students, families, and staff each day. Throughout the region, ESD 112’s school nurses serve as a critical foundation for safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments.

At ESD 112, a dedicated and compassionate team of nurses supports students across 22 Class II districts, one Class I district, and includes four Special Education nurses with specialized expertise for students with complex needs. From managing chronic health conditions to responding to emergencies and promoting overall wellness, their work ensures students are healthy, safe, and prepared to learn.

“Our school nurses are an essential part of the educational team, supporting not just students’ physical health but also their ability to fully engage in learning,” said Colleen Wahto, Health Services Director at ESD 112. “Their compassion, expertise, and dedication make a lasting difference for students and families every day.”

School nurses often act as the “glue” that connects critical systems of care. They work with families, educators, and healthcare providers to ensure students receive the support and resources they need, both inside and outside the classroom.

“Whether it’s managing a complex medical need or simply being a trusted adult a student can turn to, our nurses help ensure no student falls through the cracks,” Wahto added.

In addition to supporting regional school districts, ESD 112 nurses provide care within Specialized Student Services programs, including Spero, Florens, STEPS, Quest, Gorge Academy, and Curae, as well as Rooted Charter School and Open Doors. Their presence across these diverse programs ensures that students with unique learning pathways have the health support they need to succeed.

ESD 112 nurses also provide care to the youngest learners through Early Learning and Early Support for Infants and Toddlers programs. By working closely with families during critical developmental periods, they help lay a strong foundation for lifelong health, growth, and school readiness.

“From our youngest learners to graduating students, our nurses are advocates, educators, and problem-solvers who meet each child where they are,” Wahto said.

Across every building, program, and community they serve, ESD 112 school nurses are trusted professionals whose work goes far beyond clinical care. On School Nurse Day, we celebrate their expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student success.

To our ESD 112 nurses: thank you for the care you provide, the relationships you build, and the difference you make every single day.

Learn more about the School Nurse Corps >