LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Amy Cromwell was nominated by an anonymous colleague.

When it comes to Ms. Cromwell, this type of recognition is well deserved. Her official title is “school nurse,” but she wears so many hats, one would never know it except for the fact that she’s in scrubs every day.  She works tirelessly between two buildings in her district. Her love for the children and their families is evident in all she does.

"It’s hard to fathom the range of issues that crop up during her work day," said her nominator. "I have personally witnessed her administer first aid to a 2nd grader needing stitches.  She spoke to the child with care and just the right amount of concern to ward off the panic in the little girl’s eyes."

Ms. Cromwell quickly recognizes when a child’s sugar levels are off and takes immediate action. This is a potentially life-threatening situation, and her colleagues feel safer knowing she has it covered. Ms. Cromwell celebrates each lost tooth like it’s her own child’s first one. She quickly identifies students who may require hearing or eye exams, and she collaborates with the school counselor to service students with a variety of mental health needs. Her job is so much more than keeping track of children’s medications, but she does that, too. At the end of the day, you might see her lifeguarding at the district pool, taking yet another opportunity to get to know the district’s students. 

Ms. Cromwell heads up the district’s Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT). The MERT "furnishes each team member with the skills to provide immediate and temporary care to a seriously ill or injured employee at the workplace (Life Safety Associates)."

"I'm impressed with Ms. Cromwell’s planning, organization, teaching skills, and ability to wrangle many different personalities toward a cohesive effort," said her nominator. "When people are stretched thin, as they tend to be in a small district, it takes a strong leader like Amy to guide them in taking ownership, particularly when it’s a committee assignment that comes second to your demanding job duties."

The district's families truly appreciate Ms. Cromwell’s follow through and attention to detail. If a child is out sick for multiple days, she calls to check in, even going as far as ensuring the child has their school work for when they’re feeling up to completing it. When a child is hurt or sick, she has a way of speaking with families that is concise, caring, and respectful. She has initiated many tough conversations about hygiene, excessive absences, or unhealthy relationships. Ms. Cromwell is a master at de-escalating highly emotional situations. She does all of this with poise, grace, and a warm smile. All of this instills confidence in others.

"Our students, staff, leadership, and families feel safe knowing Ms. Cromwell will be there in a crisis, calmly doing her job and anything else that’s required.  We are so fortunate to have her at Richfield Public School Academy," said her nominator.