At the School District of Lancaster, Black History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a recognition of the stories, contributions, and legacies of individuals who impact our community every day. One such individual is Angela Thomas, a dedicated Health Room Nurse whose journey through SDOL has come full circle.
From Student to School Nurse: A Journey of Dedication
Angela’s story is deeply intertwined with Lancaster. Born in West Chester, she was raised in Lancaster City, attending Lafayette Elementary, Wheatland Middle School, and graduating from McCaskey High School in 2005.
Now, as a Health Room Nurse serving students in the district, she has returned as a pillar of support, care, and advocacy for the children who walk through her doors every day.
Her journey from student to healthcare provider reflects her commitment to giving back to the same community that once nurtured her and shaped her values.
More Than a Nurse: A Mentor, Counselor, and Advocate
Angela’s role extends far beyond administering medications and managing chronic conditions like diabetes and seizures. She is a trusted mentor, a safe haven, and a source of reassurance for students who need more than medical care. Some children come to her office just to find a moment of peace, a comforting word, or a listening ear.
“I feel like my position is more than a nurse. Sometimes I’m just the person they need to talk to for a few minutes to regroup,” she explains. “Spending a few minutes with me could save them from a day in ISS (in school suspension) or from getting sent to the principal’s office.”
Her deep connection with students stems from her own experiences growing up in Lancaster. Losing her father at a young age, she found guidance in Black male educators who stepped into mentor roles, encouraging her to rise above adversity.
“I had so many Black male educators who were there for me, pushing me, believing in me. It makes such a difference to have people who look like you in positions of influence.”
The Power of Representation: Inspired by Family
Angela’s passion for nursing was ignited by her aunt, Sherry Griffy, a longtime SDOL school nurse. Watching her aunt’s dedication to students left an impactful mark, shaping Angela’s own career aspirations. Years later, she found herself working alongside Ms. Patterson, the very nurse who had once cared for her at McCaskey. These full-circle moments reinforce her belief that representation in education and healthcare can transform lives.
“It’s different when you see someone who looks like you doing it. It shows these kids that they can achieve anything,” Angela says. Her presence in the district is a daily reminder to students of color that they too can reach their dreams and break barriers.
Breaking Barriers: The Challenges of Being a Black Nurse
When Angela first joined the district, she was one of only a few Black nurses. She recalls moments of subtle, yet persistent, underestimation. People would walk into her office, see her at the nurse’s desk, and ask, “Is the nurse here?”
“There’s an underestimation that happens,” she reflects, acknowledging the microaggressions she has encountered. But instead of letting these experiences discourage her, she has remained steadfast, proving her expertise and compassionate care through action. “I know the care I give. I know the relationships I build with these kids. No one can take that away from me.”
A Legacy Rooted in Strength and Advocacy
Angela’s pride in her heritage runs deep. As a Black American and a descendant of the Cherokee and Blackfoot Indian Tribes, she understands the importance of knowing and honoring one’s roots.
As the Secretary of the BIPOC Network, she actively advocates for racial equity and inclusivity within SDOL, working to create safe spaces where all voices are heard and valued.
Her grandmother’s story is one of resilience and empowerment, a narrative that serves as a guiding force in Angela’s life. After enduring years in foster care, her grandmother used an inheritance from her father to purchase a home in Parkesburg, PA.
She later bought the adjoining property and turned it into a refuge for community members. Her grandfather, a hardworking truck driver and member of the Thunderbirds Motorcycle Club, also faced trials, including a violent clash with a rival club that led to the Black Panthers stepping in to protect their family. These experiences instilled in Angela a deep sense of pride, responsibility, and purpose.
A Lasting Impact: The Heart of Student Success
As Black History Month reminds us to celebrate Black excellence, Angela is a living example of how one person’s dedication can change lives. Her impact on students extends beyond the school nurse’s office. She fosters confidence, belonging, and a sense of security in the children she serves.
“What I want my students to remember is that I was always there for them. Whether it was a medical need or just needing a moment to breathe, I was a safe space,” she reflects. “I hope they remember how I made them feel—cared for, supported, and seen.”
Angela has witnessed the growth of many students who once struggled in middle school but have since matured into high-achieving high schoolers, some even returning to tell her how much she influenced their journey.
Seeing these transformations reaffirms her purpose and reminds her that the relationships she builds today will have a lasting impact on generations to come.
A Story That Continues to Inspire
Angela Thomas embodies the best of SDOL, a compassionate professional, an advocate for representation, and a woman devoted to uplifting the next generation. Her journey, from a young Lancaster student to a respected school nurse, is a testament to the power of perseverance, advocacy, and care.
Her story is still being written, not just in the pages of Black History Month but every day, in every student she nurtures and every life she touches.
She stands as a symbol of strength, hope, and possibility for the students of SDOL, proving that care and commitment can leave an enduring impact on the world.