School Nurse-Counselor

Description:

Mission Statement

The School Nurse-Counselor supports the mission of St. Louis Catholic School by providing integrated health and social-emotional care rooted in the Catholic tradition of valuing the dignity of every human person. This dual-role professional serves as a compassionate presence, addressing students’ physical health needs while fostering their emotional, behavioral, and spiritual well-being in partnership with staff, families, and the parish community.

Key Responsibilities

Health Services (Ministry of Care):

• Provide direct, compassionate care for illness, injury, and chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, allergies).
• Administer medications and maintain accurate health records with the highest standards of confidentiality and integrity.
• Ensure compliance with state health regulations and diocesan/school policies.
• Serve as a liaison between the school, families, and healthcare providers to ensure a continuity of care.

Counseling & Social-Emotional Support:

• Provide short-term individual and small group counseling to support the emotional and spiritual growth of students.
• Assist students navigating anxiety, grief, peer conflict, and behavioral challenges through the lens of Christian charity and resilience.
• Lead crisis intervention and safety planning, providing a calm, faith-filled presence during difficult moments.
• Collaborate with teachers to foster a classroom environment that reflects the fruit of the Spirit: patience, kindness, and self-control.
• Identify students requiring additional psychological or special education support, advocating for their unique needs.

Prevention & Faith-Based Education:

• Deliver classroom lessons on health, hygiene, and wellness that respect the sanctity of life and the body as a temple.
• Promote social-emotional learning and character development rooted in Catholic virtues.
• Lead bullying prevention and positive school climate initiatives to ensure every child feels safe and loved in our community.

Collaboration & Community Engagement:

• Work prayerfully and professionally with administrators, teachers, and families.
• Actively participate in student support teams to provide a holistic view of student progress.
• Communicate health and wellness concerns to families with empathy and clarity.
• Provide parent education resources that empower families to support their child’s physical and emotional development at home.

Requirements:

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) with current state licensure.
• Background or certification in school counseling, social work, or child psychology (or significant experience in these fields).
• Experience working with children in a school or pediatric setting; experience in a Catholic or faith-based environment is a plus.
• A commitment to the mission and teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Strong interpersonal, crisis management, and communication skills, characterized by a spirit of service.