2023 School Nurse of the Year Awarded

Angela Lee, assistant Health director, and Cynthia Wiley, winner, of School Nurse of the Year award

Pictured above: Angela Lee, assistant Health director, and Cynthia Wiley, winner, of School Nurse of the Year award.

Public Health is proud to announce Cynthia Wiley as 2023 CMS School Nurse of the Year. Wiley is the school nurse at Hidden Valley Elementary School, and she was given a surprise ceremony celebrating her work and dedication. Leaders and colleagues from Public Health attended the ceremony in support of Wiley. Wiley’s family as well as several other school colleagues attended the ceremony to honor her. Wiley through tears and a smile, thanked everyone for the honor. “In this work, it takes a village,” said Wiley. “I am lucky this school village is so strong, I’m here when they need me. I really appreciate this recognition.” 

“Cynthia is a wonderful example of the critical role our nurses serve at a school,” said Ursula Douglas, Public Health’s School Health director. “We are so proud of Cynthia for her work and dedication. Mecklenburg County Public Health is committed to serving our community with school nurses to not only care for students who are sick and injured but also work every day to advocate, educate and coordinate services for the whole child.” 

By the end of April, Wiley had logged 462 virtual visits and served 349 students. While numbers don’t tell the complete story, they certainly help in understanding the work. Principal Danial Gray said of Wiley, “She’s not only our nurse, but she is also the backbone of our school.” 

There were nine finalists for the award, and the other finalists are listed below. 

  • Karen Abruzino, Rea Farms STEAM Academy | South Learning Community 

  • Ryann Capps, Francis Bradley Middle | North Learning Community 

  • Encarcian Galan, Paw Creek Elementary | Northwest Learning Community 

  • Joanna Harris, Montclaire Elementary | Central Learning Community 

  • Michelle Morrell, Metro School | Southwest Learning Community 

  • Tiffany Morrison, Reedy Creek Elementary | Northeast Learning Community 

  • Chavonne Robinette, West Charlotte High | West Learning Community 

  • Barbara Swayne, Garinger High | East Learning Community 

“Our school nurses like Cynthia bring to life our mission of promoting and protecting health so that students are safe, healthy and ready to learn each day. So proud of Cynthia and our entire team!” said Dr. Raynard Washington, Public Health director.