A Farewell Message from Nurse Baird

Dear Parents and Guardians,

My heart is filled with so many mixed emotions as I have announced my retirement at the end of this school year.

Since I first walked through the doors of the Ottawa Hills elementary building, my goal has always been to provide a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment for all children and staff. For thirteen years, I have had the privilege of screening all incoming Kindergarten students and watching these students mature into young adults. Being a part of their wellness and academic journey has been the greatest honor of my career. 

I want to express my sincere thankfulness to all of you for trusting me to be a part of your child’s health and well-being while at school. Whether I was navigating the complexities of chronic illnesses, managing an influenza outbreak, contact-tracing COVID, calling 911 when warranted, helping to stabilize a fracture, or caring for soooo many skinned knees and elbows, I am thankful for your support! 

I have learned so much from your children. Mostly, I have learned that each child is uniquely gifted in their own way. I learned over the years that all of the children who came to the Health Office did not always need medical assistance. There were many times that the healing of a child's injury was just kind words and hugs. I will miss the many conversations that I have had over the years with your children. I have also learned how brutally honest little ones are. I remember getting my hair cut and one of the little ones saying, “I really don't like your hair today”.

Thank you for thirteen years of memories, challenges, and pure joy! I wish all of our OH parents and guardians nothing but health and happiness in the years to come. 

With warmest regards and much gratitude

Laura Ann Baird, RN, BSN