When Tolbert's daughter started elementary school in 2000, she gained a new interest in how the school system functioned.

"I found it interesting that many children don't have the things they need to do well in school, like basic care," Tolbert said.

Soon Tolbert, who has worked in health care since 1987, learned of a need for Burke County public school nurses and thought she would be a right fit.

She applied for the job through the School Nurse Program, a subsidiary of the Burke County Health Department, and on Dec. 20 took on the students of Hildebran, Icard and Valdese elementary schools.

"The goal of the program is to make sure kids are at school and stay healthy so they can learn," said Susan Murray, school nurse supervisor.

School nurses are licensed by the state and present educational classes.

Source: Phelps, Jennifer M. "Nurses practice deskside manners in Burke schools." The News Herald. Thursday, March 10, 2005. 3-12-2005. <http://www.morganton.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=MNH/MGArticle/MNH_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1031781

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