Position: Pre-K Nurse
School: Lincoln Parish Early Childhood Center
School District: Lincoln Parish Schools
City, State: Ruston, LA
Tina Puckett has been nominated by her principal, Melinda Killen.
Ms. Puckett has helped her school for several years. She loves the little ones, holding them as they wait for a parent to pick them up. Her comforting tone and nurturing ways help sick pre-k students feel comfortable as they wait for their ride home.
"During this COVID pandemic, Tina has been such a blessing," said Killen. "She not only tracks the possible contacts made within our school and notifies any parent or person necessary, but she also calms down our staff when they become nervous due to possible exposure. Her reassurance has helped many staff members and parents with their anxiety."
Ms. Puckett makes many calls throughout the day and into the evening related to COVID-19. She has to tell many upset parents that their child may have been exposed to a family member's illness or the illness of a student. These are uncomfortable conversations, but she has a way of calming the parents down as she explains that they must not come back to school until their quarantine time is over.
Her attention to detail is greatly appreciated by all of the teachers and staff. If a child is sent to her office, she will check them thoroughly before allowing them to return to class, or call the parent and make arrangements for them to be picked up if necessary. If a child is injured, she contacts the parent to notify them immediately.
"Tina maintains professional composure as she contacts parents about injuries their children enter the school with in the morning, as well as the various illnesses and concerns related to their child, regardless of how uncomfortable the conversation may be. She has a way of helping parents see the need to get further help or medical attention for their child, without sounding judgmental in any way," said Killen.