Riverdale’s RISE Nominee: Nurse Sarah Nail

Riverdale K-8 is proud to recognize school nurse Sarah Nail as its nominee for the Tennessee Department of Education’s RISE Award (Recognizing Inspiring School Employees). This statewide honor celebrates the essential contributions of non-teaching staff who go above and beyond to make schools stronger, safer, and more supportive.

Sarah became a nurse in 2010, beginning her career at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital on the orthohematology floor. In 2015, she earned her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner, but soon after, with three young children of her own, she began looking for a way to balance family life with her passion for caring for kids.

“When the Riverdale opening came up, it just felt right,” Sarah said. “We live in Germantown, and I thought, what better way to serve than to be involved in the schools where my own children are growing up?”

Now in her second year at Riverdale, she says the sense of teamwork sets the school apart. “The teachers, the administration, our school resource officer, everyone is committed to making sure kids feel safe, healthy, and ready to learn,” she said.

While some may picture school nurses as band-aid providers, Sarah explains that the role has grown far more complex. “Today, children are managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, and asthma every single day at school. We also do tube feeds, administer daily medications, and respond to emergencies. It’s busy, and it’s vital,” she said.

Her professionalism and calm presence make her a steady hand in stressful moments. As one special education teacher, Morgan Pittman, shared, “I have a student with intense medical needs, and every time Sarah steps into the classroom, she’s calm and composed. She’s quick to call parents, explain what’s happening, and reassure everyone. She puts people at ease instantly.”

Sarah’s compassion shines in equal measure with her sense of humor, making her approachable to both students and staff. Colleague Mary Margaret Clarke put it simply saying, “She treats every child with the same love, whether they’re medically fragile or just have the sniffles. And she makes the kids laugh, which puts them at ease. She even makes bird noises at pickup sometimes and has the teachers convinced a crow is in the yard until she bursts out laughing.”

Principal Joseph Bond calls her a true asset to the school community. “Sarah Nail is a compassionate and highly skilled school nurse who makes an incredible difference in the lives of our students and families. She not only provides excellent medical care but also creates a calm, reassuring environment where children feel safe and supported. Her professionalism, kindness, and dedication to student well-being make her a deserving nominee for the RISE award.”

In addition to her work in the health office, Sarah also volunteers her expertise. She is currently serving as Riverdale’s vaping cessation specialist, representing the school when students need guidance and support in this area.

For Riverdale families, Sarah’s presence is more than kind, it’s reassuring proof that their children are in capable, caring hands.