School Health Specialist

Reports To: Director of Special Education & Student Support

Salary: $19.57 - $26.78 HourlyJOB GOAL: The School Health Specialist supports the health, safety, and well-being of students throughout the school district by coordinating and facilitating student health services, maintaining accurate health records, supporting the implementation of health-related plans, and serving as a liaison among students, families, school staff, healthcare providers, and community health resources. The School Health Specialist works collaboratively with district staff to identify and address student health needs that may impact attendance, learning, participation, and overall student success. The position assists with the coordination of health-related services and ensures that district practices are consistent with applicable Michigan laws, regulations, school policies, and established health protocols. The School Health Specialist is expected to maintain appropriate confidentiality, demonstrate sound judgment, and recognize when health concerns require the involvement of a licensed healthcare professional, administrator, emergency services, or other qualified provider.

QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent. Certified Medical Assistant or Registered Medical Assistant Experience working with children or adolescents in a school, healthcare, childcare, community, or related setting. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Must maintain confidentiality at all times. Ability to work independently and make decisions in accordance with established policies and regulations. Polite, courteous, and tactful with internal and external customers. Ability to be an ambassador for the district at all times. Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain certification within a specified period of employment. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:Student Health Services Support the coordination and delivery of student health services across the district. Provide basic first aid and respond appropriately to student illness or injury within the scope of training and district protocols. Assess student health concerns for the purpose of determining appropriate next steps and notifying the appropriate school personnel, parent/guardian, nurse, administrator, or emergency services when necessary. Support students with routine health needs while at school. Assist with the implementation and monitoring of individual student health plans, emergency action plans, and other health-related accommodations as directed by appropriate healthcare professionals. Assist with medication procedures in accordance with district policy, physician orders, parent/guardian authorization, and applicable Michigan requirements. Maintain appropriate documentation of student health services and health-related incidents. Assist with communicable disease prevention and response efforts. Support appropriate infection-control and illness-prevention practices throughout the district.

Health Records and Documentation: Maintain accurate, confidential, and current student health records. Review student health information and identify missing or outdated documentation. Assist with maintaining immunization and other required student health records. Coordinate with families to obtain necessary health documentation. Ensure health information is appropriately entered into and maintained within district information systems. Maintain confidentiality of student health information in accordance with applicable federal and state requirements and district policies. Provide health information to authorized personnel on a need-to-know basis.

Health Plan Coordination: Assist with the development, implementation, and communication of student-specific health plans as appropriate. Coordinate with parents/guardians, physicians, nurses, and school personnel regarding student health needs. Help ensure that teachers and other staff members receive necessary information and training regarding student health conditions and emergency procedures. Monitor health-related accommodations and communicate concerns to the appropriate staff. Participate in student support, special education, 504, attendance, and other meetings when health-related information is relevant.

Staff Support and Training: Provide staff with information regarding student health needs, health procedures, and emergency protocols. Assist with training designated staff on appropriate health and safety procedures within the individual's scope of training. Provide guidance to staff regarding when student health concerns should be referred to the school nurse, administrator, parent/guardian, healthcare provider, or emergency services. Support district-wide health and safety initiatives. Assist in maintaining appropriate first-aid supplies and health-related materials throughout district buildings.

Family and Community Coordination: Serve as a point of contact for families regarding routine school health documentation and procedures. Communicate professionally and compassionately with parents/guardians regarding student health concerns. Assist families in connecting with appropriate community health resources when needed. Coordinate with healthcare providers and community agencies, when authorized, to support student health needs. Promote family awareness of district health procedures and available resources.

Emergency Response: Respond promptly and appropriately to student health emergencies. Follow established district emergency response procedures. Activate emergency medical services when appropriate. Notify parents/guardians and appropriate school administrators following district protocols. Complete required documentation following significant health incidents. Participate in emergency preparedness planning and drills related to student health and safety.

Compliance and Professional Responsibilities: Follow district policies, administrative procedures, and established health protocols. Maintain knowledge of applicable Michigan school health requirements and regulations relevant to assigned responsibilities. Maintain required certifications, training, and professional development. Recognize and operate within the limits of the position's training, qualifications, and scope of practice. Protect student confidentiality and maintain professional boundaries. Report suspected child abuse or neglect as required by Michigan law. Report safety concerns, communicable disease concerns, and other health-related issues through appropriate channels. Maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with district requirements. Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee.