Q & A With Retiring Nurse Alma Ricci-Cohen

from the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District:

She has been a fixture at Todd Elementary for 23 years but it is now time to say goodbye to nurse Alma Ricci-Cohen. We caught up with her to find out all about her plans for retirement, her advice for the nurse who will be replacing her, and a funny incident involving one of her “frequent flyers.”

How long have you been a nurse at the school, and what have you done prior to your role? I became the Todd School Nurse 23 years ago in 1999. Prior to that I practiced in the acute care hospital setting and did some substitute school nursing as well, while my children were young. I still maintain my per diem position at a local hospital.

What are some memorable moments from your career at the school? That is a loaded question as there are so many! The fifth grade graduations are always memorable for me. Watching these kids grow up from kindergarten and then seeing them graduate is always a highlight.

Can you share a funny incident that happened? One of my many beloved “frequent flyers” stopped by:

Me: Hey, what’s going on? Everything OK?

Student: Yeah, I’m fine. I was absent yesterday and I knew you’d miss me, so I didn’t want you to worry.

Me: You are right! Thanks for letting me know! Now get back to class!!

Do you have any advice to offer to offer to the person replacing you?

A kind word, a cracker, or a band aid can be magical.

Always have plenty of tooth necklaces on hand.

Some kids just need a place to re-charge.

Find creative ways to eat lunch in stages.

Despite your best efforts, some paperwork will never be returned.

What are your plans for retirement?

I look forward to spending more time with my family and to having the flexibility to travel more often. I will also be working on my golf game and playing pickleball.

If you can pass any wisdom to students and/or teachers at the school, what would it be? At the end of the day, let it go. Know you did the best you could and that you have another chance tomorrow to make it better.

What is your favorite quote? “I’ve learned that people may forget what you said, people may forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

This press release was produced by the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.