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Parents may be focused on checking off school supply lists, but school nurses are thinking about something else entirely: making sure students arrive healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
Ahead of the 2026-27 school year, Penn State Health surveyed Pennsylvania school nurses about the advice they most want families to hear before the first bell. Although specific health requirements differ by state, many of their recommendations offer practical guidance for families preparing children to return to the classroom.
For school nurses, preparation begins weeks before students return as they review health records, coordinate care for students with chronic health conditions, update medication plans, and help families complete required health paperwork.
Their recommendations focus on several key areas that can help students begin the school year on the right foot.
Schedule Health Appointments Early
The weeks leading up to the start of school are among the busiest times of the year for pediatric healthcare providers, dentists, and school nurses.
The school nurses surveyed by Penn State Health encouraged families to make sure children are up to date on required immunizations, physical examinations, and dental visits. Completing these appointments early gives parents and caregivers time to address any health concerns while ensuring schools receive the necessary documentation before students return.
Re-establish School Routines
Summer schedules often make the transition back to school more challenging.
The school nurses recommended gradually shifting children back to school bedtimes and wake-up schedules rather than waiting until the night before classes begin. They also encouraged families to allow enough time each morning for a healthy breakfast.
According to the nurses, maintaining consistent sleep habits throughout the school year helps children stay focused, supports learning, and strengthens their immune system.
Prepare Medication Forms and Emergency Care Plans
For students who require medication during the school day, preparation begins well before the opening bell.
The school nurses encouraged parents and caregivers to complete medication authorization forms and communicate with the school health office about their child’s medications, medical needs, and emergency care plan.
Having this information in place before classes begin allows school nurses to coordinate care safely and respond appropriately if a medical emergency occurs.
Make Nutrition Part of the Back-to-School Plan
Beyond health paperwork and daily routines, school nurses say nutrition remains an important part of helping students succeed during the school day.
The nurses recommended balanced meals that include protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy carbohydrates such as whole grains to support growing children. They also advised families to avoid energy drinks, particularly among teenagers.
Reinforce Good Hand Hygiene
Schools are high-touch environments where students regularly share classrooms, cafeterias, buses, and common spaces.
The nurses emphasized proper handwashing as one of the simplest ways to help reduce the spread of colds and other viruses. They encouraged families to teach children to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom, before eating, and after touching commonly used surfaces. As a simple timer, they suggested singing “Happy Birthday to You” twice while lathering.
Know When Children Should Stay Home
Keeping contagious children home helps protect classmates, teachers, school staff, and the broader school community.
The school nurses advised families to watch for symptoms such as a fever above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, vomiting, or diarrhea, which may indicate a child should remain home.
At the same time, they noted that not every illness requires missing school. A child with a mild headache or who simply is not feeling their best may still be able to attend if they are not contagious, helping families reserve absences for times when children are truly ill.
The nurses also reminded families that parents know their children best and should use their judgment when deciding whether a child should attend school.
Why It Matters to Nurses
Although the back-to-school recommendations are directed at families, they also highlight the critical role nurses play in preparing students for a successful school year.
For school nurses, the weeks before classes begin are often among the busiest of the year as they review student health records, verify required health documentation, coordinate medication administration, update emergency care plans, and communicate with families and healthcare providers.
The guidance also highlights opportunities for nurses across healthcare settings. Pediatric nurses, primary care nurses, family nurse practitioners, and public health nurses all have opportunities during late summer visits to encourage families to schedule preventive care appointments, complete school health paperwork, discuss medication management, and establish healthy routines before students return to the classroom.
The recommendations also serve as a reminder that preparing students for a successful school year extends well beyond purchasing school supplies. Early communication between families, healthcare providers, and school nurses can help students arrive healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
