Deer Valley Education Foundation and John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital have chosen Linda McClintock, Deer Valley Middle School Nurse, as the 2008-2009 DVEF School Nurse of the Year.  The award, now in its sixth year, acknowledges excellence in school nursing practice and leadership in school health. ( Photos included )

Linda McClintock was selected for the award based on her years of dedication to her profession and to students. She exemplifies the qualities of her chosen profession: compassion, patience and caring. She also has the ability to stay calm under pressure, respond with professionalism and a kind heart along with a vast knowledge of school health topics, important practice issues and school health office management.

“Nurse Linda” as she is fondly called by staff, students and families of Deer Valley Middle School, is an incredibly positive force on campus.  She is an expert in dispensing medications, applying Band-Aids, and providing that bit of “TLC” that is often just what a child needs when they are not feeling well.

When students ask if Nurse Linda likes being a nurse, she replies “I love it! I especially enjoy working with you kids. Nursing is the most rewarding profession in that I am able to make a positive impact. There are not many professions that have that honor.” Linda takes the time to make every child who visits her feel special. Linda makes the nurses office a comfortable, safe place and the children enjoy visiting her. She states “I have many students stop by and say, ‘Hey, Nurse Linda, what’s up? I am just checking in.’”

“We are so proud of Linda. She’s accomplished so much as a school nurse and as an administrative nursing supervisor at Deer Valley,” said Colleen Scharneck, RN, vice president of patient care services at John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital. “She makes a difference in the lives of children and patients every day.”

Mendy, the mascot of Mendy’s Place at John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital, hospital staff, DVEF representatives and school staff surprised McClintock on May 7 at Deer Valley Middle School to announce the award.

She responded with a big smile and tears of joy as students applauded.

“I’m overwhelmed,” she said. “I’m honored and I’m very proud to represent two organizations that truly value registered nurses.”

Linda McClintock will be honored at the May 12th DVUSD Governing Board meeting. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital will present her with a $500 check, a school banner and a commemorative certificate.  In addition, Deer Valley Middle School will receive a $150 check.