Foothill’s health office aims to provide physical well-being, emotional council, and constant support to its students. On Wednesday, Ventura Unified School District held School Nurse Day to recognize and thank the health employees in the district.Foothill has both a school nurse, Mary Johnson, and a health technician, Debbie Fernnen.
In order to attain a nursing position in the school system, nurses must have a Bachelor’s degree, a registered nurse license and a health services credential. In many cases, they have also earned master’s degrees. Johnson has an MEd with an emphasis in school nursing.
“School nurses have the most requirements for their practice,” Johnson said. “All of the education gives us more tools to use to help students with different problems.”
Johnson is at Foothill on Mondays and Fridays, and spends the rest of her time at Buena. Fennern is available on campus every day of the week.
When Johnson is at Buena, Fernnen takes full responsibility of Foothill’s health office. She is in charge of regulating students’ medications, managing the health records, and contacting Johnson if a serious concern arises.
“I have basic first aid and CPR training, along with 16 years experience as a unit clerk at VCMC prior to coming to the school district,” Fennern said. “I care for students within my scope and know when to call for assistance if it is needed.”
Both Johnson and Fennern have been employed at Foothill since the school first opened. Johnson has been an RN for a total of 31 years, with 21 years as a school nurse.
“They support students both physically and emotionally, and provide education to our students and staff,” principal Joe Bova said. “They’re both always willing to do whatever it takes to support students.”
In addition to treating physical ailments, the health office is also intended to be a save haven for students.
“I want the kids here at Foothill to feel that the health office is a safe place to come. Sometimes we are just a place where you can be heard,” Fennern said.
Johnson’s favorite part of her job is the annual presentation to the freshmen health classes in which she holds discussions about important health-related issues.
“It is very rewarding to have students come back and tell me that the information I have shared with them has helped them,” Johnson said.
