School Nursing
School nursing is a specialized practice of nursing that protects and promotes student health, facilitates optimal development, and advances academic success. School nurses use ethical, evidence-based practice to bridge health care and education, provide care coordination, advocate for quality, student-centered care, and collaborate with students, families, educators, healthcare providers, and community partners to support healthy, safe, and successful learning environments.
The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) updated its School Nursing Practice Framework™ in 2024 to reflect the evolving healthcare and educational needs of students. The updated framework emphasizes evidence-based school nursing practice and the nurse's role in supporting student health, safety, and academic readiness.
Lancaster Independent School District’s Health Services Department is committed to supporting the health, safety, and well-being of students and staff throughout the school day. Our Health Services Team work collaboratively with students, families, campus staff, administrators, healthcare providers, and community partners to promote healthy development and remove health-related barriers to learning.
The Lancaster Independent School District’s Health Services Team provides comprehensive school health support that includes health promotion and education, illness and injury assessment, management of chronic health conditions, medication administration, emergency response, immunization and health record support, required student screenings, care coordination, health-related referrals, and other services that support student participation and readiness to learn.
Lancaster ISD recognizes that student health and academic success are closely connected. By providing safe, accessible, evidence-based health services and supporting the health of our students and employees, Lancaster ISD’s Health Services Department contributes to a healthy school environment where students can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
References
National Association of School Nurses (NASN)
School Nursing Practice Framework™ — updated and rereleased in 2024.
NASN School Nursing Practice Framework™
National Association of School Nurses (NASN)
Definition of School Nursing — adopted by the NASN Board of Directors, February 2017.
NASN School Nursing FAQ and Definition of School Nursing
Contact
Dr. Antionette Mathews
Director of Wraparound Services
972-218-1400 ext. 5546
antionettemathews@lancasterisd.org
Lori Cullum BSN, RN
Elementary Lead Nurse
972-218-1614
loricullum@lancasterisd.org
Karleen Watson APRN, MSN, BSN, RN
Health Services Coordinator/Secondary Lead Nurse
972-218-1587
karleenwatson@lancasterisd.org