•  Nurse WELCOME TO DEER VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL HEALTH PAGE!

    I am Nurse Emilie and I look forward to caring for your 7th and 8th grade students!


    I was born and raised in Iowa, moving to Arizona with my family in 2014. I am happily married and we have 5 children. We also have 2 dogs, a cat, a tortoise, fish, and chickens. I enjoy spending time with my family, being outside, and volunteering/serving. My nursing career has consisted of Family Practice/Urgent Care, Pediatric Home Care, School Nursing, and Leadership.


    I believe in being a collaborative team partner with students, families, and staff to help create and promote a positive and healthy environment and work together to develop pathways where health and education come together and ensure student success.


    I am here for you and your students!     


    "School nurses play an essential role in keeping children healthy, safe and ready to learn. They support student success by providing health care through assessment, intervention, and follow-up for all children within the school setting. The school nurse also addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and social health needs of students and supports their achievement in the learning process." ~ National Association of School Nurses

     

    HOW TO KEEP YOUR TEENAGERS HEALTHY!!

    NUTRITION: Many teenagers may need more nutrients such as calcium, Vitamin D, potassium, fiber, protein, and iron. Colorful vegetables and fruits, lean meats, healthy fats, and limited sugar intake should be a part of our teenagers' daily intake. "National Institute of Health" Skipping meals is NOT healthy. If your student does not want to eat breakfast or lunch at school, please send them something nutritional to eat so they are ready to learn for the day. 

    HYDRATION: Our bodies are 60% water and we live in the desert. Please send a water bottle with your student to school daily.      Staying hydrated will help them to concentrate better, feel more energized, plus it's good for your skin. "Health for Teens". Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, and fatigue. HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!!!

    REST: The  American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends 8-10 hours of sleep per night for teenagers from the age of 13 - 18. Teenagers who don't get enough sleep may have frequent illnesses, difficulty with attention, behavior issues, and poor mental health,"CDC Healthy Schools". The National Sleep Academy finds that by stopping the usage of electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed, we may be able to fall asleep faster, rest better and longer, and feel more rested the next day. "School Health"

    PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Encourage your teenager to get outside for fresh air and at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This is not only good for them physically, but mentually too! Try going for an after-dinner walk with your family. It's a great way to spend time together, have meaningful conversations, and enjoy nature! 

    HEALTH OFFICE INFORMATION:

    If your student has a chronic health condition and will be taking medication at school, please reach out to me! 

    The Health Office provides on-campus health screenings, assessments and health education, as well as first-aid and nursing care for students and staff. 

    The Health Office is NOT A PRIMARY CARE FACILITY OR URGENT CARE. 

    The LAW states the nurse is not allowed to make a medical diagnosis, prescribe treatments or medication. When accidents or illness occur during school hours, basic first-aid and/or emergency care will be given according to the Az State Board of Nursing standards and practices. The nurse may suggest further medical follow-up in certain circumstances. However, further care and follow up is the responsibility of the parents.

    Parent/guardian and Emergency Contacts/Health History Form:

    Parents/guardians are required to complete an Emergency Contact and Health History Form for each of their students EVERY YEAR. PLEASE ensure that all contact and health information is up to date and correct. Contact the Registrar with any contact information changes and the nurse for health information changes if needed. 

    A PHOTO ID is required to pick up any student during school hours.

    Screenings Conducted at School:

    Hearing and vision screenings are done on all students that are new to the district, all students who receive services through the special education department, and all seventh grade students. Parents and teachers may also request a screening for any student at any time when a concern arises. If your student is uninsured and needs assistance with a vision screening and glasses, please let me know! 

    I look forward to a GREAT year!

    "Intelligence and skills can only function at the peak of their capacity when the body is healthy and strong" John F. Kennedy