Garland ISD’s Director of Health Services, Renee Kotsopoulos, has been named the Texas School Nurse Organization (TSNO) School Nurse Administrator of the Year—a prestigious honor that shines a spotlight on her dedication to student health and safety and the exceptional care provided by Garland ISD nurses.
Reflecting on this accomplishment, Kotsopoulos shared: “It means that all the work I’ve put into Garland ISD over the past 25 years is being recognized.” She continued, “More importantly, it’s about acknowledging the incredible nurses in our district who provide unmatched care to our students and staff.” This award symbolizes the high standards and dedication that have become hallmarks of Garland ISD’s nursing programs.
Kotsopoulos’s journey began as a campus nurse, a role that offered firsthand experience of the complex responsibilities school nurses face. “People often think we just hand out bandages and treat stomach aches,” she explained. “But it’s so much more than that. We handle a wide range of physical and mental health situations to ensure students are safe, healthy, and ready to learn.” Rising to a leadership position was driven by her passion for advocating for school nurses and ensuring they have the resources to make a difference.
Leadership, as defined by this award-winning administrator, is about understanding the challenges nurses face and equipping them with the right tools to excel. “You have to be in tune with your team’s needs while holding everyone, including yourself, to high standards,” she emphasized. “Our nurses want to be the best, and it’s my responsibility to provide the support and resources they deserve.”
Thanks to her leadership, Garland ISD implemented life-saving measures such as Narcan and unassigned epinephrine on all campuses before these programs became state requirements. The district also introduced asthma management programs, visited campuses to identify and mitigate environmental triggers, and developed a comprehensive evaluation system to ensure best practices in medication management.
Kotsopoulos credits these successes to the collaborative spirit of the district’s nurses. “We’ve implemented these programs together, always prioritizing what’s best for our students,” she said. Looking ahead, she hopes for greater statewide support for school nursing, including having an increased understanding of the complexities of the role. “Our district is fortunate to have unmatched support from our administration and school board, but not every district has that advantage,” she noted.
When asked about the award’s significance, Kotsopoulos reflected on the memories that have shaped her career. “I think about the students I’ve known since Pre-K and how some still reach out after graduation to share how they’re doing. It’s a reminder of the difference we’ve made together,” she said. “Winning this award makes me proud, not just of myself but of our entire team. We truly have the best nurses in Garland ISD.”
This recognition underscores Garland ISD’s commitment to unmatched student care and sets a high bar for school nursing statewide. With visionary leaders like Kotsopoulos, the district remains a beacon of excellence in student health and safety.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.