If I told you there was a resource that can increase student attendance, improve educational outcomes and create lifelong health benefits, would you believe me? It exists, and it’s called a school-based health center. These centers are extensions of neighborhood health clinics, but they are located right in schools. As a provider at CHAS Health’s clinic in John R. Rogers High School, I have seen firsthand how life-changing this type of care is for students and their families. We provide accessible physical and mental health services where students spend most of their time – at school. Students across the state deserve this low-barrier care; that’s why I’m advocating for investments to strengthen and expand school-based health centers this legislative session.
