Position: District Nurse
School: USD 353
School District: USD 353
City, State: Wellington , KS
Holly Parkey was nominated by her colleague, Kristee Bernd.
Ms. Parkey goes above and beyond the call of duty as a district nurse. She trains staff members on the medical needs of students, as she is responsible for all six schools in her district. She sits on committees to not only improve the care given to the students, but the safety and well-being of the staff and students in her district.
"As a teacher in this district, I see how invested Holly is in our schools, students, families, and community," said Bernd. "For the past two years, she has had to work more than twice the regular hours to improve COVID-19 protocol and make sure the protocols are being followed."
"As a parent to a child with Type 1 diabetes in our district, I entrust the health of our child to Holly every single day," said Bernd. "My daughter is in a different elementary building than the one I teach in, and Holly makes sure her needs are taken care of to keep her safe and healthy. She attends kids' sporting and community events. She provides resources, accepts after-hour phone calls, and is always available to provide an ear. Holly has done an outstanding job in our district, and we would be lost without her. She is the true hero of our district and community. Thank you, Holly, for everything you have done, that you do, and all that is to come. We know you are tired, and we want you to know we see you and your sacrifices."