Stirlen named Indiana School Nurse of the Year

Students and staff gathered in the school gymnasium to honor Stirlen for a surprise announcement that she has been named the Indiana School Nurse of the Year.

Making the announcement was Tori LaMotte, the school nurse for Garrett-Keyser-Butler schools and president of the Indiana Association of School Nurses.

“I’m so excited and extremely honored to be here with you today to recognize and celebrate someone very special to your school and someone I have gotten to work with very closely these few years. An individual who embodies compassion, care and dedication in your school community,” LaMotte said.

“Indiana’s School Nurse of the Year award is given every year to one nurse in the whole state of Indiana. This nurse is someone who goes above and beyond to ensure the health and well-being of their students.”

LaMotte explained school nurses are nominated for the award by other nurses, by teachers and by school administrators and superintendents. After the nominations are received, the state board meets and votes on one nurse.

“We look for a nurse who shows leadership in school health and excellence in their school nursing practice,” LaMotte said.

“This year’s recipient has not only demonstrated exceptional medical expertise, but also an unwavering commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for everyone. Her ability to comfort, educate and heal extends beyond the four walls of her clinic, leaving a lasting impact on the entire school community.”

DeKalb Central schools Superintendent Steve Teders nominated Stirlen for the award.

“She is not just a school nurse, she’s a beacon of excellence in school nursing practice and leadership,” Teders said in his nomination.

“In every aspect of her work, she exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, compassion and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to excellence in school nursing practice has not only enhanced the health and well-being of our students, but has also inspired those around her to strive for greatness.”

Presenting Stirlen with the award, LaMotte said, “Robin, your tireless efforts and genuine concern for the well-being of your school community makes you such an incredible nurse and so deserving of this award.”

Stirlen has been a school nurse for eight years — all at McKenney-Harrison. Prior to that, she was a neonatal intensive care unit nurse in Fort Wayne for 12 years.

“I always wanted to be a school nurse,” especially in the same school as her children, she said.

When her children stared attending the school she became a substitute school nurse and ultimately was able to get a full-time position.

Stirlen and her husband, Tom, are the parents of four children, Reese, Bo, Mack and Gage, all of whom have attended, or still attend, McKenney-Harrison.

“I love kids and helping people,” Stirlen said of her desire to be a school nurse.

“I just love everything about it.”

Stirlen said she was shocked, surprised and thankful to be recognized with the award.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Mrs. Stirlen in the building,” said Principal Justin Hoard.

He noted that Stirlen is the district-level nurse as well as the nurse specifically at McKenney-Harrison.

“It’s awesome to have her here,” he added.