Wantagh Middle School nurse Hildi Dzigas will receive the Excellence in School Nursing Award for Zone 1. The honor is bestowed by the New York State Association of School Nurses and recognizes members who excel in their practice of school nursing.

Ms. Dzigas was chosen for this prestigious award by her colleagues from Nassau County. She was nominated by Victoria Alssid, the retired nurse of Forest Lake Elementary School. Her selection reflects her excellent leadership skills during the pandemic, her advocacy for students and their families and her responsive and caring nature. She frequently attends programs and workshops to enhance her knowledge and stay updated on CDC and New York State health guidelines. 

A resident of Wantagh, Ms. Dzigas has been the middle school nurse for 13 years and prior to that was a substitute nurse in the district. She began her career as a hospital nurse.

Ms. Dzigas is a member of the board of directors for the Nassau County zone of NYSASN. She is an advocate for a state requirement that all schools have a professional registered nurse on staff which, she noted, is common practice but not mandated. 

At the NYSASN banquet on Nov. 5 in Skaneateles, Ms. Dzigas and recipients from the other zones will receive their awards. She was also recognized at the Oct. 21 Wantagh Board of Education meeting. 

“This award means a lot to me, especially during the time of COVID,” she said. “I’m very appreciative. I feel like all of the children at Wantagh Middle School are my own children, and I love taking care of them every day.”