School Health Assistant (Medical Assistant)

School Health Assistant (Medical Assistant)

The School Health Assistant manages the daily operations of the school health office. The position provides first aid, supports student health needs, maintains required records, and implements care under established protocols and provider orders. This role operates under Arizona Department of Education guidelines and district policies, with access to consultation from a licensed nurse or healthcare provider as available.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Completion of a Medical Assistant program or equivalent healthcare experience required
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification required
• Experience working with children or in a school setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic first aid and common pediatric health conditions
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions within established protocols
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Effective communication with students, families, and staff
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Essential Functions / Performance Responsibilities

Health Office Operations

• Independently manage the school health office
• Provide first aid and care for minor injuries and illnesses
• Evaluate student complaints using established protocols and determine appropriate disposition (return to class, parent/guardian contact, or activation of emergency services)
• Create and sustain an environment that is structured, safe, and conducive to learning by proactively addressing behavior concerns and promoting positive, consistent expectations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and adequately stocked health office

Student Health Services

• Administer medications only with current provider orders and written parent/guardian consent, in accordance with district policy
• Assist with and implement individualized healthcare plans (IHPs) and emergency action plans developed by a licensed provider or district nurse
• Monitor students with chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, severe allergies) and follow prescribed plans
• Recognize signs of medical emergencies and respond appropriately, including activating EMS
• Conducts basic health screenings, such as vision and hearing tests for students
• Understands and adheres to mandated reporter guidelines, including recognizing signs of abuse or neglect and promptly reporting concerns in accordance with legal and district requirements.
• Provides class wide screenings in response to identified concerns to support early identification and intervention.

Health Records & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, confidential student health records in compliance with FERPA and applicable privacy laws
• Monitor and track immunization compliance per Arizona state requirements
• Maintain documentation of all health office visits, medication administration, and incidents
• Ensure required health forms and emergency contact information are current
• Support staff who are injured at work by guiding and assisting them through the workers' compensation process, including reporting procedures, required documentation, and coordination with appropriate personnel to ensure timely care and compliance.

Communication & Coordination

• Communicate with parents/guardians regarding student illness, injury, and health concerns
• Collaborate with school staff regarding student health needs and accommodations
• Consult with a district nurse, if available, or follow standing orders and protocols approved by a licensed provider
• Collaborate with front office staff to ensure efficient communication, smooth daily operations, and coordinated support for students, staff, and families.

Critical Scope of Practice (Arizona Compliance)

• This position is unlicensed and does not perform nursing assessments, diagnoses, or clinical judgment reserved for licensed nurses
• All medication administration must follow R.S. § 15-344 (self-administration of medication) and district medication policies
• Care is delivered under standing orders, protocols, or delegated tasks from a licensed healthcare provider or district nurse (if applicable)
• The employee must defer to emergency medical services (911) in situations beyond training or protocol

Work Environment

• School campus without a full-time licensed nurse
• Frequent student interaction, including exposure to illness and minor injuries
• May require standing, walking, and occasional lifting

Benefits: Employee benefits in accordance with Board Policy.

Evaluation: Performance in this position will be evaluated in accordance with Board policy for the evaluation of support staff personnel.