Clinton Central School District parents concerned with middle school part-time nurse position
By: Jennifer Lee
Updated: June 15, 2012
As many area school districts are making cut backs, one school district is looking to cut its school nurse position to part- time.
Parents Eyewitness News spoke with say they're afraid this move by the Clinton Central School District has not been thought through.
And although they reached out to the superintendent, they say there are many questions than answers at this point.
"The safety has to go above the budget. Clinton schools always had three nurses and it's been that way for a reason," said Rick Heintz.
Mary and Rick Heintz's son has severe peanut and tree nut allergies. Even though their son hasn't had an allergic reaction in school, they say it can be deadly if their son doesn't receive the proper care.
"If he doesn't get that Epipen in him properly and in him right away, yes he can die," said Mary Heintz.
Which is why Mary and Rick say they are concerned if the middle school nurse goes to a part-time schedule.
"If something were to happen, the nurse will not get there on time from the high school or it's too far. It's a quarter of a mile," said Rick Heintz.
Parents say the high school nurse will have to cover both the buildings if the middle school nurse is there only for half of the day.
They question what would happen if multiple emergencies happen at the same time.
Delvena Rogers says she has personally written letters to the superintendent and has yet to hear from him...
She says her daughter has Type 1 Diabetes and goes to the nurse four or five times a day to test her blood sugar.
"She's always known where the nurse is and when the nurse will be there. And the nurse in the elementary school would check on Olivia," said Delvena Rogers.
Clinton Central School District's superintendent Matt Reilly says, "we care deeply about our students. The school is working with the nursing staff to best configure hours and protocols to best serve our students needs and ensure student safety."
Parents say they hope to have better communication with the school's administration and be a part of the plans for the next school year.
