Kristen DeLaRosa

My name is Kristen DeLaRosa, though the students know me as Nurse Kristen. I am excited to join the Whittier Elementary community as your School Nurse!

My family and I moved to Oak Park from California in the summer of 2025, and we have loved becoming part of this wonderful community. My son attends Hatch Elementary, so I understand firsthand the importance of helping students feel welcome, safe, healthy and ready to learn.

I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from the University of the Pacific and completed a master’s thesis focused on improving wound care for people experiencing homelessness. I am currently completing my School Nurse certification through the University of Illinois Chicago. I am a Certified Public Health Nurse, certified in Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, and I am also a member of the Oak Park Board of Health.

My nursing experience includes inpatient psychiatric nursing and pediatric school nursing. You may have already met me, as I had the pleasure of serving as a substitute nurse throughout District 97 during the 2025-26 school year.

I look forward to getting to know each of you. By partnering with students, families, and staff, we can create a healthy and supportive environment where every child can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

Please reach out to me with any questions or concerns throughout the school year. I also appreciate updates on your child’s health, including new diagnoses, medications, injuries, hospitalizations, or any other changes. Even seemingly minor information can help me better support your child. By keeping me informed, you help ensure I can provide the best possible care and promote a safe and healthy learning environment for all students.

Kristen DeLaRosa, MSN, RN, PHN