Wednesday, May 8, is School Nurse Day! Thank you to all the public health nurses who take care of our students.

Public Health Nurse Shahenil Grealish has always loved working with and caring for people. She became a nurse nearly 25 years ago, in 1990, because she felt that she could both “help people and make a positive impact on their lives.” 

Shahenil has been a Fairfax County public health nurse supporting FCPS for three years. She assists students and families at Ravensworth, Oak View, Terra Centre, and Laurel Ridge elementary schools.

“I enjoy working with children and their families to provide care, support, and education and help them navigate their health challenges in a school environment,” Shahenil explained. “The relationships I develop with the students and their families are the most rewarding aspect of [my job].” 

Some of Shahenil’s favorite memories at FCPS have been “when we as a team (teachers, social workers, administration, etc.) work collaboratively to make sure that ALL of a student’s needs are met,” she continued. “It is so wonderful and heartwarming to see all the care and dedication everyone has in making this happen.”

“Shanie is a wonderful nurse,” Kristy Vitter, senior manager of School Health Services shared. “I’ve seen firsthand her care and concern for the students and families she serves. She has built trusting relationships within her school communities and is truly an asset to our program.”

Before becoming a public health nurse, Shahenil was a labor and delivery nurse. “It is just as rewarding to see students thrive and be healthy as it [was] helping to bring new life into the world!”