A Healthier Tomorrow: ChristianaCare Pioneers School-Based Health Centers in Delaware Elementary Schools

Children's health© Sorapop Udomsri / Canva

WILMINGTON, DE — Children’s health and education have long been recognized as pillars for a prosperous society. As we navigate an ever-changing world, the urgency to address the comprehensive health needs of our young populace remains at the forefront. One such proactive approach is being spearheaded by ChristianaCare in Delaware.

In an ambitious move to arrest health concerns at the earliest, ChristianaCare has opened three new school-based health centers in Delaware elementary schools. The strategic placing of these health centers – Brookside Elementary School in Newark, Silver Lake Elementary School in Middletown, and Richardson Park Elementary School in Wilmington – is part of a larger goal.

“Early intervention is vital in addressing our adolescents’ pressing health concerns,” asserts Erin Booker, Chief Bio-psycho-social officer at ChristianaCare. “Opening these three new school-based health centers is a crucial step towards convenient access to medical services, behavioral health services, and wraparound social care.”

These centers, established in partnership with the Delaware School-Based Health Alliance, the schools, and school districts, are intended to buttress the health and education of the young, setting them on a path of lifelong wellness.

ChristianaCare’s newest endeavor is backed by New Castle County government with funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The firm now manages health centers in seven elementary schools and 19 high and middle schools.

Each center is staffed by an experienced health care team, encompassing medical, mental health, community health, and nutrition experts. Additionally, the centers offer a myriad of services by appointment during the school day.

Priscilla Michelle Mpasi, M.D., FAAP, assistant medical director for the Clinically Integrated Network and Delaware Medicaid Partners, adds, “School-based health centers are the connection of whole-child health and education. Children learn better when they are happy, healthy and have a safe place to go when they need care.”

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The centers, situated within each elementary school, offer care at no cost to students, easing the burden of parents and students to find transportation to meet their health care needs.

Dan Shelton, Ed.D., superintendent of Christina School District, believes that providing essential services directly at school presents an incredible opportunity. “Establishing an in-school wellness center at Brookside Elementary School is an exciting moment for us. We aim to give our students the support they need to be fully ready and eager to learn.”

Dorrell Green, Ed.D., superintendent of Red Clay Consolidated School District, stresses the pivotal role of school-based health centers in fostering a thriving community. “Each child must have access to learn, grow, and succeed, and these centers play a significant part.”

Matt Burrows, superintendent of the Appoquinimink School District, hailed the opening of the first school-based health center in the area as a significant stride. “The services provided by school-based health centers span a large array of care. As we continue to grow, having these services inside one of our elementary schools will be incredibly beneficial for our families. The services that are being provided by ChristianaCare are invaluable for our students and their families.”

Health and education are undeniably linked. By addressing health needs at the earliest stages, we can pave the way for healthier, more prosperous societies. It’s gratifying to see ChristianaCare leading the way in Delaware, effectively bridging the gap between health and education.

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