Parents and nurses oppose school district's plan to replace RNs with LVNs

Concerns over student safety took center stage at the Canutillo Independent School District (CISD) Regular Board Meeting on April 22, 2025, as parents and nurses voiced their strong opposition to the district's decision to cut eight registered nurse (RN) positions and the nurse coordinator role, replacing them with licensed vocational nurses (LVNs).

Jean Fienos, a parent and registered nurse, passionately argued that the move compromises student safety, stating, "You are putting a price on our students' lives, and those lives are priceless." Fienos highlighted the critical role RNs play in managing emergencies and chronic conditions, emphasizing that LVNs, while valuable, cannot provide the same level of care without proper supervision. She recounted personal experiences where her RN training was vital in life-threatening situations, underscoring the potential risks of understaffing.

Adriela Coteo, another school nurse, echoed these sentiments, explaining that many students rely on school nurses for essential medical care, particularly those from low-income families who lack access to healthcare. Coteo detailed her daily responsibilities, which include monitoring students with severe health issues, and warned that the absence of RNs could lead to dangerous delays in care during emergencies.

The meeting also saw calls for a transparent review of the nursing model's impact on student health outcomes. Parents urged the board to reconsider the cuts, arguing that maintaining a full-time RN presence is crucial for ensuring student safety and well-being. One parent pointedly questioned the board's plan for handling health emergencies if RNs are not available, highlighting the inadequacy of LVNs in critical situations.

As the board faces mounting pressure from the community, the implications of these staffing changes remain a pressing concern. The decision to reduce nursing staff has sparked fears about the potential for increased health risks among students, with advocates urging the district to prioritize health services over budget cuts. The outcome of this debate could significantly affect the quality of care provided in schools, raising questions about the balance between fiscal responsibility and student safety.