Bob Clark Interview

1. Name and Title as you would like it presented:

Bob Clark, BSN, RN District Nurse

2. School Name where you work:

Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District

3. How long have you been a school nurse?

School Nurse: 9 years

Nurse: since 1993  

4.  Nurses have a lot of options when deciding where to work. How did you choose to work for a local school and what has kept you in school nursing so many years?

I first moved into community health working in home health, IV infusion and hospice. It was a natural progression, to move into school nursing where it is more connected to the community in a deeper way. 

 I love the practice and being involved in the lives of kids and families. I see the difference I can make. The things we can help with as a nurse are huge… kids with diabetes, wheelchair-bound, to kids difficult time in everyday school day. Health office transitional spot between home and school, a safe place.

The day can be busy, amazing and heart-retching. We get to do amazing things.

5.  What motivates you to make a difference for your students and community?

This goes to the soul of a person, and it’s not the money. Compassion and indebtedness to the community.  I’ve been in this community since 1981 and this community has been wonderful to me. I have a sense of obligation to give back.  Worked with kids and families most of my adult life, and care about these people, kids. I want these kids to enjoy their childhood, to make the school experience or home life a better one, I want to do that. Help them get over obstacles, help them see things can be better. 

6. What is one thing you’d like the community to know about school nurses?

To parents I want you to know we are on your side, making it better for your child while in school.  Wish parents knew that. It’s not just about band-aids, head lice and immunizations.  It’s about helping their child to be amazing and do amazing things, overcoming obstacles whatever they may be.

It would be wonderful if parents would visit and spend time in the health office, see what goes on. They would be amazed.

Support your school nurses, work with them as a team. We have the same goals. We want your kids to be in a place they can learn, to be healthy and to have a great day at school every day.  Best possible outcome from school.