A Washington state school district is incorporating school-based health centers on campuses to support students’ health and well-being holistically.
Imagine a high school where students not only attend classes but can also easily access medical care, mental health support, and even dental check-ups—all without leaving campus. Sounds too good to be true? Well, in Washington State’s Edmonds School District, this is an increasing reality thanks to the School-Based Health Center (SBHC) initiative, spearheaded by the district’s Director of Student Health Services, Mara Marano-Bianco.
It all started with a simple but powerful idea: break down the barriers that prevent students from being healthy and ready to learn. When a student is struggling with a toothache, they might find it hard to focus in class. A teen dealing with anxiety might miss school altogether. Marano-Bianco understood how these common health challenges can impact learning and was determined to find solutions for the youths in her district. She looked to successful models locally and across the country and envisioned a healthcare hub that could serve both students.
Big ideas need partners, and the Edmonds School District found an incredible ally in the Community Health Center of Snohomish County (CHC). CHC, a non-profit with a long history of serving those with healthcare barriers, stepped up to operate and provide medical, mental health, and dental services.
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