Announcing the 2026 Bluebonnet Award Finalists
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Honoring Exceptional School Nurses Across Texas
At Cartwheel, we believe school nurses are the heart of student well-being—providing not only medical care, but compassion, stability, and advocacy for entire school communities. That’s why we created the Bluebonnet Award, a program dedicated to recognizing outstanding school nurses across Texas who go above and beyond every single day.
After an inspiring nomination season filled with powerful stories, we are proud to introduce the 2026 Bluebonnet Award Finalists:
🏆 Meet the Finalists
💙 Anna Hjertstedt
Jesuit Dallas
As the sole nurse serving a campus of over 1,200 students and 250+ staff, Anna Hjertstedt exemplifies dedication, professionalism, and heart. Since joining Jesuit Dallas during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she has been a steady and reassuring presence—guiding her community through uncertainty while ensuring safety and care for all.
Anna manages a wide range of student health needs independently, from everyday care to serious medical conditions like cancer and diabetes. She works closely with students and families, monitoring ongoing conditions and ensuring students can safely participate in school life. Known for her tireless work ethic, she often sacrifices personal time to remain available to anyone in need.
Beyond the clinic, Anna is deeply embedded in her school community—supporting extracurriculars, educating others on health and wellness, and balancing her work with her role as a devoted mother. Her impact is felt in every corner of campus.
💙 Kerri Gibson
San Gabriel Elementary, Georgetown ISD
Kerri Gibson is more than a school nurse—she is a foundational leader within her school community. From helping shape campus culture before the school even opened to serving as a trusted voice on the leadership team, Kerri’s influence runs deep.
She is known for creating a sense of belonging for everyone she encounters—from the youngest students to staff and families. Kerri approaches students with patience, compassion, and understanding, especially those with complex behavioral or medical needs, ensuring they feel safe and supported.
A passionate advocate for public education and student health, Kerri communicates clearly and proactively with her community—keeping families informed about illnesses, prevention, and care. She is also a mentor to fellow nurses across her district, offering guidance and training with a calm, supportive presence.
Her impact is perhaps best reflected in the lives she touches directly—like a student battling brain cancer, for whom Kerri has been a constant source of strength, care, and advocacy. She is, in every sense, a servant leader.
💙 Jenni Skopal
Stiles Middle School, Leander ISD
Serving one of the largest middle schools in her district, Jenni Skopal is known for her unwavering dedication to students, staff, and families alike. With a full and fast-paced clinic, she ensures every individual receives thoughtful, thorough care—always following up and making each person feel seen and supported.
Jenni’s impact goes far beyond day-to-day care. She actively educates her school community on health topics, empowers families to make informed decisions, and consistently communicates with warmth and clarity. Her ability to multitask while maintaining a high level of care is unmatched.
What truly sets Jenni apart is her humanity. She shows up for her community in their most difficult moments—offering comfort, guidance, and presence during times of crisis and loss. Colleagues describe her as compassionate, approachable, and endlessly supportive—a steady, trusted figure for both students and staff.
Her dedication, professionalism, and heart make her a one-of-a-kind nurse and an invaluable part of her school.
🌼 About the Bluebonnet Award
The Bluebonnet Award, presented by Cartwheel, recognizes outstanding school nurses across Texas who demonstrate excellence in student care, leadership, and community impact.
Through this program, we aim to:
- Celebrate the critical role school nurses play in student health and success
- Elevate stories of compassion, advocacy, and innovation
- Support and recognize nurses who go above and beyond their roles
Finalists and winners receive recognition across Cartwheel platforms, along with exclusive awards and prizes that honor their meaningful contributions to their communities.
Learn more about the Bluebonnet Award here:
🔗 gocartwheel.com/bluebonnet
💙 Celebrating What Comes Next
These three finalists represent the very best of school nursing in Texas—and choosing among them is no easy task.
Stay tuned as we announce the 2026 Bluebonnet Award winner soon.
In the meantime, join us in celebrating Anna, Kerri, and Jenni—and the countless school nurses who make a difference every single day. 👏🩵
4 comments
Nurse Jenni jumped into action when we faced a season more challenging than I ever could have imagined. She provided care, listened, guided me through the needed steps, picked up pieces that I didn’t even realize we dropped, and above all helped us all to recognize that while all of this struggle was happening, we were doing it and therefore succeeding. She gave us a needed dose of hope and love, and helped us to see that success might look different, but it was success all the same. She is the best of the best!!!
Jenni Skopal sets the gold standard on what a school nurse should look like. She takes excellent care of her students and staff, and we are so fortunate to have her at our school. I am not surprised at all that she is a Bluebonnet Award Finalist. We think she is the best of the best!!!
You could not have made a better choice than Jenni Skopal!!! Nurse Jenni is the kindest, most patient, lovliest human being — we are so lucky to have her caring for our kids and ourselves here at Stiles!!!
Nurse Jenni is the best! Not only does she help students, but the staff as well. She is calm, patient and loves us and we love her!