NCESD Welcomes New School Nurse Corps Director Blanca Salgado
North Central ESD is pleased to announce a leadership transition for the regional School Nurse Corps (SNC) program. After eight years of dedicated service as SNC Director, Cathy Meuret will retire at the end of the 2024–2025 school year. Under her leadership, the program grew to support nearly every small district in our region and prioritized continuous quality improvement for school nurses.
We are excited to welcome Blanca Salgado as the next School Nurse Corps Director at NCESD. Blanca brings a decade of diverse nursing experience and a deep commitment to equitable access to care for all students.
A Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Blanca began her career in acute care at Confluence Health with a focus on medical-oncology. She later transitioned to school nursing, where she managed chronic conditions, led prevention and health education efforts, and ensured compliance with immunization requirements. Throughout, she remained focused on student wellness.
Since joining NCESD in 2024 as a Migrant Nurse Case Manager, Blanca has advocated for migrant students and families by connecting them with medical, dental, and vision care. She has helped create meaningful partnerships between schools, providers, and families. Her work organizing health fairs and resource events has improved access to vital services and strengthened community connections.
“I’m truly excited to step into this role and support school nurses and administrators across North Central Washington,” said Salgado. “My goal is to help eliminate barriers so they can continue the incredible work I’ve witnessed them do.”
The School Nurse Corps is a statewide program funded by the Washington State Legislature to address limited access to registered nursing services in schools, especially in small and rural districts. Since its creation in 1999, the SNC has helped ensure safer schools, improved student attendance, and better health outcomes. The program plays an important role in supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom.
Under Cathy Meuret’s leadership, the regional SNC program expanded its services and deepened its impact across North Central Washington. We are grateful for her vision and dedication to the health and well-being of students and school communities.
Please join us in congratulating Cathy on her upcoming retirement and welcoming Blanca into her new leadership role.
Related Posts
