Professional Growth is Vital.
Classes and Other Professional Development Opportunities
Pacific Lutheran University
School of Nursing
Introduction to School Nursing
24 OSPI Clock Hours, Offered Summer and Fall
School nursing is a specialized practice that advances the well-being and health of students in the K-12 school-age population. Our blended class combines the best of independent and in-class learning, allowing participants more flexibility without sacrificing quality or content. This course prepares you for the initial Educational Staff Associate Initial Certification as a School Nurse. Content includes the role of the school nurse within the context of the school and society, growth and development, assessment and screening tools, school law, and legal, ethical and professional responsibilities of the role.
Summer 2026 Register at: Introduction To School Nursing ESA (Registration Open Now) | Washington State Only | Pacific Lutheran University Center for Continued Nursing Learning | Nursing Network
Location: self-study/online synchronous combo
Student self-study begins Monday, June 1, 2026
Virtual, online class Friday, June 19, 2026
In-person skills lab Saturday, June 20, 2026
PLU Garfield Commons 208 Garfield St. S Tacoma, WA ROOMS 101,103
This course is approved by the the the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) for meeting the requirements for initial certification as a School Nurse.
For additional information please visit our website: https://www.plu.edu/ccnl/introduction-to-school-nursing-2/
Contact: Program Manager ccnl@plu.edu | (253) 535-7027
Mary Bridge Children's
Head-to-Toe Education Series
Virtual professional development series for school nurses in Washington State
The Head-to-Toe Series was developed by Tacoma Public Schools to bring specialty health care education to school nurses. Through our partnership with Tacoma Public Schools and regional pediatric health specialists, the Bessler Center is bringing this series statewide.
Head-to-Toe is designed to strengthen school nurses’ ability to serve students with complex health needs. By effectively managing low to moderate health needs, nurses can support students’ ability to attend school and actively participate in their education, enabling them to thrive throughout their lives.
If you are a school nurse in Washington state, we invite you to register for the live Head-to-Toe webinars or access the recordings asynchronously. All sessions are eligible for Clock Hours through the School Nurse Organization of Washington (SNOW) for a $3 fee. To attain Clock Hours, you must watch the installment, complete a brief online evaluation, and pay the $3 fee.
Best Strategies for Helping Students with Asthma, Allergies and Anaphylaxis
Specifically designed for school nurses, school health coordinators serving Grades K-12
Presented by Sally Schoessler, MSEd, BSN, RN, AE-C – School Nurse Educator
- Gain the experience to confidently manage asthma, allergy & anaphylaxis emergencies in the school setting.
- Discover the most effective tools for planning and providing optimal care for students with complex needs.
- Access a wealth of free resources to optimize your time and enhance your ability to care for your students.
- Leave with an extensive digital resource handbook complete with protocols, handouts and resources.
- State CEUs and Graduate Credit available – Nursing CEUs available in certain states.
Washington State University
School Nursing:
Preparation for Initial Certification
This course is designed for a nurse with a BSN who wishes to prepare for certification as a school nurse. Topics will include the role of the school nurse, schools and society, growth and development, learning strategies, school law, and the legal and professional responsibilities of the ESA-prepared school nurse. This hybrid course will incorporate independent study and virtual classroom instruction. Independent study course materials are to be completed and submitted to the faculty prior to the dates of classroom instruction for evaluation. Classroom instruction is offered virtually.
Cost: $450
Information and course registration can be found here: https://nursing.wsu.edu/continuing-education/
Contact: Program Coordinator nursing.profdev@wsu.edu (509) 324-7311
ESA Certificated School Nurse in Washington State
Information about becoming an ESA Certificated School Nurse in Washington State is available at the website of the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.