Exciting New Health Clinic Opens at Howard School in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, TN – In a move that prioritizes student wellness and academic success, Howard School has proudly opened its very first onsite health clinic. This innovative step aims to tackle an issue that many schools face: chronic absenteeism. With a focus on keeping students healthy, the clinic is a promising addition to the school community, setting a great example of what’s right with our schools.
A Vision for Health and Success
Dr. LeAndrea Ware, who serves as the Executive Principal at Howard School, shared her enthusiasm about this new initiative. “Today is another phenomenal day here at the amazing Howard School,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of having a health clinic directly at the school. “We all know chronic absenteeism can be a huge deterrent for academic excellence, and so when we can have the clinic here on site and service our students to keep them healthy, it’s just phenomenal for us,” she added.
Community-Centric Approach
With a commitment to not only serve students but also their families, the clinic is a product of careful planning and community engagement. Shannon Moody, the Chief Strategy Officer for Hamilton County Department of Education (HCDE), highlighted the thriving nature of the Howard community, saying, “This community is such a wonderful community with many students here. We wanted to make sure that this was a good fit.”
Moody further explained that the location was strategically chosen to make it accessible not just for students but potentially for their families as well. “Our hope is that we can work this up where we’re not just seeing students, but we’re seeing families too,” she said, showcasing the clinic’s intention to serve as a valuable resource for the entire community.
Accessible Care for All
At the heart of the clinic’s operation is the aim to provide quality health care regardless of a person’s insurance situation. Ken Jones, the Board Chairman for Erlanger Community Health Centers, explained, “We have an RN nurse that’s here all the time, and doctors come in as needed. It’s literally that simple.” He reassured anyone hesitant about seeking care by pointing out, “Guess what? That’s what the federally qualified health centers are all about: making sure that we can serve people whether you have insurance or not.”
This welcoming atmosphere ensures families feel encouraged to seek care for themselves alongside their children. The message is clear – everyone deserves access to quality health care, and this clinic is ready to provide that support.
Building Future Careers
The benefits of the clinic extend beyond immediate health care. The partnership with Erlanger also involves initiatives to encourage students interested in health care professions. Principal Moody touched on how the clinic provides a platform for high school students to explore nursing programs. “We have many students that are actually exploring nursing programs and have opportunities to do work-based learning,” she said. This hands-on experience can inspire students and motivate them to pursue careers in health care, while simultaneously addressing attendance issues.
Looking Forward
As the school year unfolds, the Howard School health clinic aims to become a vital part of the community fabric. By focusing on the health of their students and families, they hope to foster a more engaged and present student body. The synergy between health and education is not just a goal; it’s a necessity for the future. With ongoing support and a community-focused approach, Howard School is joining hands with families to build a healthier future. It’s a win-win for everyone involved and a truly exciting development for Chattanooga!
