Position: School Nurse
School: Twillman Elementary School
School District: Hazelwood School District
City, State: St. Louis, MO
DeLisa Watson was nominated by her principal, Carla Leggett.
Ms. Watson is more than just a nurse—she is a true cornerstone of the school community. She changes lives daily through her dedication, compassion, and unwavering support for students and staff. Ms. Watson has an incredible ability to connect with students in ways that go beyond her job description. Not only does she ensure their physical health needs are met, but she also tutors students during her free time. She helps them with academics and understands how their choices impact their health and learning. Her efforts build confidence in the students and show them that someone truly cares about their success.
Her commitment to serving the multilingual community makes her even more exceptional. She has taken it upon herself to study multiple languages to better communicate with and serve the diverse student population. This effort speaks volumes about her dedication to inclusivity and desire to ensure every child and family feels understood and supported.
Ms. Watson is also a strong advocate for students in need. She regularly attends IEP and student support meetings, bringing her expertise to ensure every student gets the services they need to thrive. Her voice in these meetings is always focused on what's best for the child, and her input makes a tremendous difference in their lives.
"The positive energy Ms. Watson brings to the school is contagious. She supports teachers in meaningful ways, whether helping with classroom management strategies or offering guidance on approaching difficult conversations with parents. She always supports school initiatives, aligning her work with our mission to provide every student with a safe and nurturing learning environment," said Leggett.
What sets Ms. Watson apart is her leadership and professionalism. She is meticulous as a nurse, ensuring every protocol is followed, and every child's health needs are met. Beyond that, she is a mentor to staff, always willing to share her knowledge and lend a hand where it's needed most. Her commitment to excellence inspires everyone around her.
"On a personal level, DeLisa is one of the kindest, most ethical people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She treats everyone with respect and empathy, creating an atmosphere of trust and warmth throughout the school. Parents, teachers, and students know they can count on her to be there for them, no matter the situation," said Leggett.
Ms. Watson is the definition of a LifeChanger. Her dedication to her work and compassion for others make her an integral part of the school community.
"It's hard to imagine Twillman Elementary without her, and it's even harder to express just how much she means to all of us. She truly deserves this recognition, and I am honored to share just a glimpse of her incredible impact on our school," Leggett added.