We would like to take this opportunity to voice our support for the United Action Candidates.  As individuals and as a team they have consistently over the last four years shown their support of not only nursing issues, but all of Health and Human Service divisions. 

Through their commitment to undertake the specific needs of the HHS divisions, the HHS Steering Committee is now in the process of updating contract language specifically addressing transfer and assignment processes.  Once completed, the United Action Candidates have agreed to place these items on the negotiating table for approval by the District.

The United Action Candidates have expressed their interest in the plight of School Nurses.  They have also become very aware of the nursing shortage in general and the ever changing role technology has had on this position.  Most administrators still tend to see School Nurses as “Band Aid” Queens, but with the ever increasing number of health assessments, the advent of Welligent, plus staff trainings, medications, mandated screening, communicable disease, etc.; they are trying to help School Nurses in updating and educating Administrators when ever possible.  

The United Action Candidates have been asking what needs to be done to continue to attract qualified school nurses.  Today, because of their commitment to School Nurses, they have a better understanding of the requirements necessary to become a Certificated School Nurse.  They are aware of the fact that not only does the school nurse have to be a Registered Nurse with a Bachelors degree, but in most cases must return to school to earn a School Nurse Credential.         

Nurses and other HHS personnel have worked very hard to have their voices heard and for the first time in many years the UTLA Leadership seems to be listening.  We would like to see this strong working relationship continue, thus we are asking School Nurses to continue their support of the United Action Candidates by joining us in voting for these candidates in the up coming election.

 Elysa MacGregor             Susan Doming
Chapter Chair, Nurses     Co- Chapter Chair, Nurses