Dear Select Board,
It is my understanding that our Public Health Nurse, Neia Illingworth, may be at risk of losing her position due to funding constraints. I urge you to work together to find a solution to retain this pivotal member of our public health team.
In addition to assessing community health needs, developing and implementing health programs, and advocating for policies that improve overall well-being, Neia plays a crucial role in collaboration with me as Lead Nurse for our school district. She reports cases of communicable diseases to me, which helps prevent the spread of infections and ensures the health and safety of both students and staff. I then share this information with the nurses at the relevant schools, and together we work to identify, monitor and manage disease transmission across our three schools. This is not just important — it is essential, even if largely invisible to most. Losing Neia would mean losing a critical resource for the health of our school community and their families.
Swampscott is incredibly fortunate to have Neia safeguarding our public health. Her work ethic is unmatched, and her background, education and experience make her an asset any community would be lucky to have. Neia is smart, hardworking and thorough. Her commitment and performance during COVID should be proof enough of her knowledge and dedication. She also plays a key role in emergency preparedness and response. She’s done it before, and we will want her with us if we face another public health crisis.
Your decision to support her by funding her position should not be in question. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Emily Cilley, MSN, RN, NCSN
Lead Nurse
Swampscott Public Schools
