DERRY — The Derry schools are in need of some quality substitutes this year, especially when it comes to school nurses.

“We are really in need of school nurse substitutes,” said Assistant Superintendent MaryAnn Connors-Krikorian. “If anyone out there is interested or qualified, they can pick up an application at the superintendent’s office or call the office (at 432-1210).”

Substitute school nurses must be registered nurses, and as with all substitute teachers, fingerprinting and a background check is required.

“This is one area where we truly have a limited pool,” said Superintendent Laura Nelson. She said the substitute position is a good opportunity for an RN who wants to work part time or who is interested in getting back into nursing.

In addition to nurses, the district is looking for any qualified candidates who would like to be substitute teachers in the schools.

The district is holding its annual training session for substitute teachers on Tuesday, Oct. 2, at 6:30 p.m. at the Gilbert H. Hood Middle School.

“The substitute training is strongly suggested for any substitutes who are new to the district,” said Krikorian.

Substitute teachers returning to the district are also encouraged to take part in the session.

“The substitutes can always learn something and can always give input into what we need and what they need,” Krikorian said.

The workshop will be given by Krikorian; Jane Simard, business administrator; Capt. Vern Thomas of the Derry Police Department; Daniel LaFleur, principal of the Ernest P. Barka Elementary School; and Joe Crawford, assistant principal of the Gilbert H. Hood Middle School.

For those new to substitute training, the school district prefers that individuals hold either a two- or four-year college degree. All new substitute teachers and nurses must complete an application, which can be obtained at the superintendent’s office. In addition, the district performs all the required criminal checks for those working with school-age children. Appointments for this screening need to be made in advance by calling the superintendent’s office at 432-1210.

Anyone interested in attending the workshop should call the superintendent’s office to register.

“This is a good learning experience and good for community building as well,” said Krikorian.

aswift@newstote.com