As such, she focuses on prevention of illness, early detection and correction of health problems. This includes health assessment knowledge and proper referral services. With 22 years of nursing experience, she is a first responder for any medical emergencies at the school, has reduced the number of students being unnecessarily sent home by about 20 percent, and has not missed a single day of work since she was hired two years ago, except to attend approved training or mandatory county nurse meetings. “Nurse Thompson is an invaluable asset to the Minneola Mustang Team,” her nominating committee letter reads. “She is one shining example of an employee that stands out by putting the needs of students, staff and parents ahead of her own.”