WHEREAS, students have a right to have their physical and mental health needs safely met at school; families deserve to feel confident that their children will be cared for when they are at school; and
WHEREAS, school nurses have served a critical role in improving the health of our students at school and ensuring their academic success for more than 100 years; and
WHEREAS, by investing in our students’ health today, we are ensuring a better future for our state and nation; and
WHEREAS, thestudents of today face complex mental and physical health problems requiring expert care and attention; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the essential role school nurses play in treating and improving student health at school; and
WHEREAS, school nurses act as a liaison to the school community, families, and healthcare providers on behalf of children’s health by promoting wellness and improving health outcomes; and
WHEREAS, school nurses understand the link between health and learning and are in a position to make a positive difference for children every day; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina is proud to recognize the important work carried out by school nurses on a daily basis, and commends their continued professionalism and care even in the face of a global pandemic;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 12, 2021, as “SCHOOL NURSE DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.