School Nurses Are on the Frontline at the Schools

Shelly Zehm and Kesha Milne, school nurses for the Cascade School District, are busy these days. While their duties have shifted considerably over the last eight months, they are key in shaping and implementing the district’s COVID-19 safety measures.

They stay on top of the latest COVID-19 information and shepherd staff and parents through potential thickets of confusion.

“We have been very involved with making sure our staff is properly equipped with the correct Personal Protection Equipment for the requirements of their jobs,” explained Zehm, who serves the preschool, Alpine Lakes Elementary, Beaver Valley, Icicle River Middle School and special education. “We have been attending building orientations to explain the at-home student health screenings to parents. We provide education for staff and parents concerning screening for COVID-like symptoms and exposure to persons with COVID-19.”

Milne, who is responsible for Peshastin Dryden elementary, Cascade High School, Home Link, the Discovery School and special education, is confident that the district’s efforts are instrumental to the safe reopening of schools. “We are providing our students with multiple layers of protection through planning and preparing,” she said. “And we are able to do testing for staff and students, which gives families a little peace of mind. Because of all the things in place, when we have had a positive case, the effect has been minimal.”

The work gives them a sense of accomplishment. “It is so satisfying to use my years of nursing experience to care for people,” said Zehm. “There is a lot of confusion and fear associated with COVID-19. We attempt to offer facts and provide reassurance.”

Superintendent Tracey Beckendorf-Edou recognizes the important role Milne and Zehm fill. “Our school nurses have been invaluable during this pandemic and are consummate professionals. They make sure that what we do is informed by best practices.”

Now more than ever, community partners are assisting each other to solve the challenging issues of public health, financial hardship and stress. Zehm mentioned a few valued partners. “Aisha Houghton, Cascade Medical Social Worker, has so much experience and is a huge asset to Leavenworth.

“I’ve also worked with Upper Valley MEND several times to assist families in need. We collaborate with CVCH and Confluence pediatric case managers to close the loop on student health issues.”

Looking ahead to winter gives Milne pause. “People do get sick this time of year normally, and now we have another illness, which means kids will miss out on more time at school.”

However, Zehm noted, “Scientists are getting closer to having a vaccine.”

“I see us proceeding with caution,” said Milne. “I wish all kids could return back to