Crystal Lake’s Lundahl Middle School launches new asthma program for students

September 16, 2022 at 4:30 am CDT

During the 2022-23 school year, Lundahl Middle School students will have a new way to manage their asthma at school thanks to a new initiative spearheaded by nurse practitioner Tanya Rettig. Pictured (L to R): Kristi Ljunggren, Ashley Funk and Doug Lomen, Tanya Reddig, Randy Funk and Angie Compere. (Provided by Crystal Lake Elementary School District 47)

In an effort to boost the attendance rates of students with asthma, a nursing intern at Lundahl Middle School in Crystal Lake has spearheaded a new initiative.

The 56 students at Lundahl with an asthma diagnosis will be able to use an asthma spacer during the school day in the health office and learn tips for managing their asthma, according to a news release.

Nurse practitioner and intern Tanya Rettig will work with the school nurse to track use of the devices and monitor student absentee rates throughout the school year, according to the release.

Rettig, who is working on her doctoral degree in nursing from Concordia University of Wisconsin, decided to make the goal of her thesis to boost the confidence and attendance of students with asthma.