Trumbull School Nurse Takes State Honor

Jane Ryan School Nurse Joanne Sloan is “Connecticut School Nurse of the Year" and “One of the Top Ten Nurses in Fairfield County.”   

“After all my years of nursing in various types of settings, I have found my dream job!  I love the independence, the challenge, and that every day is different, but knowing resources are not far away,” Sloan said.

Jane Ryan’s Principal Mary Ellen Bolton, said, “Nurse Sloan makes a difference with our students, families, staff and the community at large.  She does this always with a caring heart and a smile.  What a gift she is to so many.”

Sloan was nominated for the honor by one of her peers and the nomination was supported with letters from teachers, school officials and parents who all praised her.

Sloan was recognized for "her compassion for children, subject matter expertise, delivery of training and awareness programs, and relationships with parents and teachers alike.  Letter writers cited Sloan’s reputation for reaching beyond the traditional role of school nurse, raising awareness of health care issues from breast cancer to heart disease.

"Her health fairs, holiday boutique, fundraisers, and volunteer work with AYSO Soccer are examples of Mrs. Sloan’s 'above and beyond' work ethic and compassion," according to a town statment.

Trumbull’s new Director of Nursing, Coleen Figliuzzi, said, “We’re proud of Joanne and thrilled for the recognition this honor brings to our entire school nurse program.”

 Sloan came to the United States from England 25 years ago.  She has practiced nursing in three different countries and is known for her sparking personality, her wit, and her British accented “cheerio” when visitors leave her office.

Sloan and her husband have three grown children, all who attended Jane Ryan Elementary School, Madison Middle School and Trumbull High School.

Sloan was also chosen by The Connecticut Post as one of the Top Ten Nurses in Fairfield County, to be featured in the May 12 issue of The Post.