The purpose of the School Nurse Leadership Academy is to help school nurse leaders develop the skills needed to direct district level school health services. The cohort-based program develops leaders who have the vision and skills necessary to support school nurses as they address the often complex health needs of school-age children.
The Academy is for school nurse leaders from all states and locations (i.e. school nurse administrators, lead nurses, leaders of state/local school nurse organizations).
The Academy, developed in partnership with George Mason University and originally funded by the Virginia Department of Education, began with our first cohort in January 2025.
Based on a national needs assessment, the program focuses on three main areas:
- Navigating the world of preK-12 education and the role of school health.
- Fostering leadership skills and confidence to strategically create change.
- Managerial skills of a leader (i.e. budgeting for change, conflict management).
The Academy is a 1 to 1 1/2 year program with monthly contacts. The format of the program includes asynchronous modules, live zoom webinars, and 2-3 in person experiential learnings. An individual and group project help solidify skills. Networking and coaching is also included in the program. Three badges and a certificate are earned, along with nursing CEUs, upon completion of the program.
If sufficient interest, the Academy, including the in-person portions can be brought to a state or region.
For more information contact: Erin D. Maughan emaugha@gmu.edu or complete a brief form.