Bethel Park School District nurses, in partnership with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, hosted the Regional School Nurse Professional Development Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, Election Day, welcoming nearly 70 school nurses from across Allegheny and Washington counties.
Nurses representing McGuffey, Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, McKeesport, Brentwood, Propel, North Hills, and other districts gathered for a full day of speakers, presentations, vendor exhibits, and professional networking.
The program featured two keynote speakers. Dr. Robert Olympia, professor of emergency medicine and pediatrics at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, presented on emergency medicine and pediatric health. Chad Hermann, vice president of communications and strategies, shared strategies for more effective communication.
Additional presentations addressed pressing issues in school nursing. Dr. Jillian Irwin, medical director at the Allegheny County Health Department, spoke about rising measles cases and issued a call to action on school nursing advocacy. Tracy Strachan discussed managing one-to-one nursing services within school buildings, and Paul Cindric provided information on Act 48 continuing education credits and induction resources.
“The discussion allowed us to learn about issues pertinent to school nurses and collaborate with colleagues from other districts,” said Eileen Wallace, a Bethel Park elementary school certified school nurse. “Being able to make meaningful connections and address common challenges together is extremely valuable.”
Vendors including Spartan Pharmacy, the American Heart Association, Breathe PA and Case Nutrition were also on hand, sharing resources and educational materials nurses could bring back to their districts. Attendees also had the opportunity to receive their annual flu vaccine during the event.
Organizers called the day a success and said they hope to make it an annual tradition.
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