Prioritizing school nurses over guidance counselors in learning crisis

In the face of the ongoing educational crisis in the Philippines, where the Department of Education (DepEd) estimates a staggering 14 years to fill all vacant guidance counselor positions, it is imperative to reconsider the roles and allocation of school personnel who can effectively address the immediate needs of our students. Given the severe shortage of guidance counselors, the best and most pragmatic option is to prioritize the hiring of school nurses. School nurses, with their training and multifaceted roles, not only promote a healthy and safe school environment but also serve as a critical support system for both students and staff.

School nurses are not mere health-care providers; they are the cornerstone of a healthy school environment. Their responsibilities extend far beyond treating minor injuries and illnesses. They provide direct health care to students, offering assessments, interventions, and follow-up care that is crucial for student success. Moreover, school nurses are leaders in health services within the educational system, providing expert guidance on health policies and programs that directly impact the well-being of the entire school population.

The mental health of students is a growing concern, particularly in a post-pandemic world where anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are on the rise. While guidance counselors are traditionally seen as the primary support for student mental health, school nurses are uniquely positioned to provide a wide range of mental health interventions. As the only health-care providers in many school settings, they have the training and experience to identify mental health concerns early, provide immediate intervention, and collaborate with other school and community partners to develop comprehensive mental health programs.

Moreover, school nurses can advocate for policies that address the social determinants of health—factors that significantly impact mental health. By engaging in professional nursing practice, using the nursing process for decision-making, and actively collaborating with others, school nurses build student and family capacity for adaptation, self-management, self-advocacy, and learning. In essence, they not only address existing mental health problems but also work proactively to prevent future issues.

Hiring school nurses instead of guidance counselors also offers significant economic and educational benefits. From an educational perspective, school nurses contribute directly to improved academic achievement. Healthy students are better learners—this is a well-established fact. By ensuring that students’ health needs are met, school nurses reduce absenteeism, enhance students’ ability to concentrate, and promote a positive school environment. These factors collectively contribute to better academic outcomes, which is ultimately the primary goal of the education system.

The reality is stark: the DepEd’s projection of 14 years to fill all vacant guidance counselor positions highlights a critical gap in our educational system. While guidance counselors play an essential role, the limited number of graduates from master’s degree programs in guidance and counseling makes it impossible to meet the current demand. In contrast, the role of school nurses is not only more readily filled but also more versatile in addressing both the physical and mental health needs of students.

By prioritizing the hiring of school nurses, the education system can more effectively address the immediate health and mental health needs of students while laying the groundwork for long-term improvements in school health services. This approach also allows for a more equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that all students—regardless of their school’s ability to hire a guidance counselor—have access to the health services they need to succeed.

Jerome Babate, RN, MBA, PhD, LCLP