Holiday Message from the President

Dec 23, 2025

Dear School Nurse Colleagues,

As the year draws to a close, I want to extend heartfelt Christmas and holiday wishes to each of you. Your dedication to the health, safety, and well-being of Rhode Island’s students, families, and school communities continues to inspire and uplift our profession.

This season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal. May the coming weeks of school break bring you moments of rest, joy, and connection, along with good health and happiness for you and your loved ones. Your work is often unseen but never unimportant, and it truly makes a difference every day.

As we look ahead to 2025, I invite each of you to consider becoming more involved in RICSNA, whether through committee participation, advocacy efforts, mentorship, or leadership. Our organization is strongest when many voices contribute, and the coming year offers meaningful opportunities to shape the future of school nursing in Rhode Island.

In particular, we are seeking a new President to help lead RICSNA into its next chapter. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence policy, support colleagues, and advance our shared mission. If you have ever considered stepping into a leadership role or would like to learn more, I encourage you to reach out and explore how you can serve. 

We have a full and important agenda ahead as we look toward 2026. One key area of focus will be school nurse teacher certification, which is coming up for discussion. With strong member support and a willingness to serve on a dedicated committee, there is an opportunity to work with Rhode Island College to transition our certification under the College of Nursing rather than Health Education. Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the survey; your input is invaluable as we move this work forward. (92 responded)

On the legislative front, we are prepared to continue supporting the Seizure Safe Schools Bill and are hopeful that Neffy will be incorporated into state regulations moving forward. As we close out current initiatives, we also recognize that many additional opportunities lie ahead. Continued progress will depend on members who are willing to step up, get involved, and help lead this important work.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our profession and to one another. Wishing you peace, wellness, and hope throughout this holiday season and in the year ahead.

With warm regards,

Michelle Iacoi, President
Rhode Island Certified School Nurses Association