In the latest episode of Beyond Bandaids, National Association of School Nurses CEO Terri Hinkley is joined by Matt Hickling, Chief Nursing Officer of Davin Healthcare, for a timely conversation about school nurse workforce challenges and the future of school health services. Drawing on his experience as a school medical director and advanced practice provider, Hickling discusses why traditional staffing models no longer reflect the realities of today’s student populations and why workforce solutions must be tailored to community needs rather than relying on outdated nurse-to-student ratios.
The episode explores innovative, evidence-based approaches to strengthening the school nurse workforce, including structured onboarding and mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and partnerships with university nursing programs to build sustainable pipelines. Hickling and Hinkley also look ahead to the evolving role of team-based school health models that better support students with complex medical and behavioral needs while reducing burnout among nurses. This episode invites school nurses, administrators, and education leaders to think more broadly about how strategic planning, leadership development, and collaboration can shape a stronger future for school nursing—and ultimately improve student health and academic success. 🎧 Listen now.