DEDICATED TO SCHOOL HEALTH
The Florida School Health Association (FSHA) is dedicated to keeping our members informed on the current issues facing school health. FSHA provides an annual conference with informative sessions and networking opportunities for your professional development, keeps members up to date with legislative issues affecting school health, and supports a coordinated school effort. The Florida School Health Association (FSHA) was formed in 1983 through the dedication and hard work of involved members. FSHA believes that the ability to learn at school is directly related to the status of the student’s well-being. FSHA is a multidisciplinary organization of administrators, school nurses, health educators, counselors, physical educators, social workers, psychologists, and nutritionists.
2024 School Health Services Supervisor Award
Maria Russ Hillsborough County School District
Professionally, Dr. Russ has over 33 years of nursing experience in both public and private sectors. She serves as Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Supervisor of School Health Services and as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) for the nation’s seventh largest school district. Maria oversees 240 school-based health clinics and 500 nursing and medical professionals. Because of her vision, all students have direct access to health care, dental services, glasses, hearing aids and surgeries without any out-of-pocket expenses to the students and their families.
Dr. Russ’ commitment to education and preparing nursing students for the workforce is evident by her record of collegiate teaching for over 24 years. She is driven by her commitment to assuring educational excellence to make our school communities healthier and setting the highest standards in education, practice, and research.
Maria is a hard worker, proven leader and believes in pursuing challenges to carry on the legacy, commitment to health, education, scholarship, and dreams of those who have paved the way in order for future generations to flourish.