New rules on the certification of school nurses are causing a stir.
Last year, lawmakers passed a bill that tightens the requirements for who can work as a school nurse in New Hampshire. Among other things, it requires a bachelor’s degree and certification from the state Board of Education – just like a teacher.
But some say the rules are too stringent. Tim Soucy with the Manchester Department of Health, the largest employer of school nurses in the state, testified at a recent state Board of Education meeting.
“These rules will dramatically impact our ability to recruit nursing staff in an already competitive market, if a BSN plus 3 years of experience are required.”
Others, including the New Hampshire School Nurses’ Association support the change.
The Board of Education has some discretion in how they implement the standards. They are receiving public comment on the issue until June 16th.
