“A lot of people think it's just Band-Aids and ice packs, and it's so much more than that.”
School nurses like Aidan McCrum support their communities in numerous ways.
Yes, he addresses the day-to-day bumps and bruises associated with active young students at schools like Hutton Elementary School, but a significant part of his job is managing health care plans for students with chronic or life-threatening health conditions.
“We’re at the point now where we can have almost the hospital-level acuity students attend school,” Nurse Aidan said, noting that school nurses care for students with diabetes, seizures and other conditions that need oversight from a medical professional.
School nurses provide care for students and training for other staff members, so students come to school and learn in a safe and healthy environment. They also support students emotional needs, recognizing that a student with a stomach ache might be feeling anxious and need a trusted adult to talk to.
“That's why I like nursing, because we treat the whole person,” Aidan said.
Positions for school nurses are supported in part by the local Educational Programs and Operations levy, which helps to fund academic programs, services, and student activities and athletics that are not funded by the state. The local levy makes up about 15% of Spokane Public Schools' annual operating budget. A replacement levy will be presented to voters on the Nov. 3, 2026, ballot. For more information, visit Learn About the Levy.