The Indianola School Board received a presentation from the school nurses and healthcare associates at their most recent meeting, discussing the services they provide to the district. Superintendent Art Sathoff tells KNIA News the job of a school nurse has changed a lot since current parents have gone to school.

“There are more complex situations and probably higher numbers of health challenges in students today. I think we are seeing more diabetic students, more food allergies, for whatever reason, those are things that tax the system. We have tremendous school nurses and health associates, very dedicated people, and this has been a conversation in our HR Committee meetings about what are appropriate staffing levels. It’s an area they are doing a great job, but they could use more help.”

Sathoff also said as the board continues the budget process and working out staffing priorities, adding more healthcare staff is something to keep in mind.