Whether you need a Band-Aid or need to rest, the clinic is always open. They offer many different things from ice to a call home, and are always there to give advice if needed. The nurse’s office is located near the attendance desk towards the front of the school.
Nurse Jamie Mountain
What made you want to become a school nurse?
Before becoming a school nurse, I worked as a hospice nurse. It was a deeply meaningful role where I had the privilege of supporting patients through their end-of-life journey and helping families navigate their grief and loss. While incredibly rewarding, the emotional toll of continual loss became mentally exhausting over time. When my family relocated to Virginia Beach, I saw school nursing as the ideal path–one that still allows me to make a positive impact, while also offering a schedule that aligns perfectly with the needs of my family.
What motivates you?
What motivates me most is knowing that students at Salem High School see the clinic as a safe space. Being someone they can turn to—whether they’re dealing with a physical illness or going through something emotionally—is incredibly rewarding. Helping them feel better, in any way I can, is what keeps me going every day.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I start my day by opening the clinic and administering morning medications. From there, no two days are ever the same—some involve treating general illnesses or handling routine medications, while others include supporting students with mental health concerns or responding to medical emergencies. It definitely keeps me on my toes!
What is the funniest or most unexpected reason a student came in?
There’s never a dull moment in the clinic—some of the things that happen truly make me laugh or just leave me wondering. I’ve been asked for hand warmers in the middle of spring, every snack you can think of, and yes… I once had to remove a staple from someone’s forehead. Honestly, there are so many unexpected moments, I’ve lost count!
What do you wish students did differently when feeling sick?
I really wish students would take better care of themselves—both physically and mentally. So many come to the clinic feeling sick, and it turns out they haven’t eaten all day or just had an energy drink instead of a real meal. That leads to headaches, dizziness, nausea, stomach aches, fatigue, and even increased anxiety. A little self-care can go a long way in helping them feel better throughout the day.
Nurse Melissa Henry
What made you want to become a school nurse?
All of my favorite jobs in the past have involved working with children. Once I became a LPN, I knew that I would love to be in an environment working with kids again and there is NO better place than being the clinic assistant at Salem.
What motivates you?
My children motivate me to always try my best because! I always want to make them proud!
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day is usually pretty busy in the clinic. We do a lot of listening and a lot of talking with students and their parents. In the process, if we can make people feel better, we are all winning!
What is the funniest or most unexpected reason a student came in?
I am giggling just thinking about it… A student was laughing so hard that they needed a new pair of pants to be brought into school.
What do you wish students did differently when feeling sick?
I would love for students to know that most of the reasons they come to the clinic are generally not reasons they need to go home. Just power through and take care of your schoolwork!
