What is SNAPP?
SNAPP is a federally funded educational program that prepares nurses to function in the school systems (Pre K-12) to meet the needs of students with low-incidence disabilities (e.g., autism, hearing impairments, visual impairments, deaf-blindness, orthopedic impairments, multiple disabilities, traumatic brain injury and severe/profound disabilities).

Why become a SNAPP Scholar?
SNAPP Scholars learn how to collaborate as vital members of interdisciplinary teams serving students with low-incidence disabilities and their families. Nursing in school settings offers opportunities for autonomous practice, as well as direct care and program development, to pNovember 9, 2006eds. Also, school nursing is a specialty with expanding employment opportunities.

Who should apply?
Nurses who are enrolled or planning to enroll in RN to BS or RN to MS programs, as well as baccalaureate nursing students at one of the SNAPP participating universities are eligible to apply. Participating programs include: Hampton University, James Madison University, Radford University, Shenandoah University, University of Virginia, and Virginia Commonwealth University. Practicing nurses with a BS or MS degree may apply (enrollment in a degree-granting program is required by several of the participating schools of nursing).

What are the benefits and requirements of participation?
The SNAPP program offers flexible, self-paced education. Students will receive tuition assistance for 12 credits for successfully completing the three courses described below. In return for tuition assistance, SNAPP Scholars agree to work as school nurses for one year.

What will I learn?
Assessing the Health Needs of Vulnerable Populations within the Context of Schools focuses on school health services within the context of inclusive educational practices for students with low-incidence disabilities (LID), including their health promotion, support and restoration needs. This web-based course provides an overview of school nursing practice, special education, and students with LID.

Interdisciplinary Teaming examines the school nurse’s role on the educational team and collaborative teaming as an approach to delivering inclusive services to students with disabilities. It will be offered as a full week summer course.

The Clinical Practicum provides opportunities to collaborate with families and school personnel to apply principles and knowledge in working with students with disabilities. This practicum is tailored to meet the learning objectives of the individual SNAPP Scholar within the requirements of their school of nursing program.

How do I apply?
Submit an application with a resume. To obtain an application, please contact the Faculty Facilitator at your university or a project director . Download application (PDF)