District Newsletter: Our Community Health Partnerships and School-Based Services

School-based health partnerships expand what districts can offer students beyond what school health staff alone can provide. When families know what services are available inside the school building, access to care improves, barriers drop, and student health outcomes benefit. A clear newsletter about partnerships and services is one of the most practical public health communications a district can make.

What Our Health Partnerships Are

Our district has formal partnerships with [list community health organizations]. These partnerships bring [specific services: behavioral health counseling, dental screenings, vision screenings, immunization clinics, telehealth access, community health worker outreach] into school buildings. Services are available at [specific schools] and, in some cases, available to students district-wide.

Mental Health Services Available

[Organization name] provides licensed mental health therapists at [number] of our schools. Therapists are available for short-term counseling, referrals to community providers, and consultation with school staff about student needs. This service is free to students. Referrals come through the school counselor, but families can also request a referral by contacting the counselor directly.

Physical Health Services Available

[Organization name] operates a school-based health center at [school name]. The center provides primary care visits, immunizations, physicals for sports and activities, and treatment for common illnesses. The health center accepts most insurance plans and provides services on a sliding scale for families without insurance. No appointment is necessary for most visits.

Vision and Dental Screenings

Vision screenings are conducted for all students in grades [grade levels] annually. Students who need follow-up care are referred to [program name], which provides free glasses to families who cannot afford them. Dental screenings are offered at [schools] through our partnership with [organization name]. Students who need restorative care are referred to the dental clinic at [location] which offers services on a sliding fee scale.

A Sample Health Partnership Newsletter Excerpt

"Our district partners with [organizations] to bring health services directly into schools. Mental health counseling is available at [schools]. The school-based health center at [school] is open [hours]. Vision and dental screenings happen every year for students in [grades]. You do not need to take time off work for these services. Your child gets the care they need at school."

How to Access Services for Your Student

Contact your school's counselor or health office to be connected with any of these services. For the school-based health center, a visit can be scheduled by calling [number] or by stopping in during open hours. For mental health counseling, the initial referral comes through the school counselor. Most services require a parent consent form for students under 18.

Insurance and Cost

All services are available regardless of insurance status. Most services accept Medicaid and CHIP in addition to private insurance. For families without any insurance coverage, services are available at low or no cost through our partnership agreements. Contact [name] at [email] if cost is a barrier and you need help navigating the options. Daystage newsletters include direct links to each partner organization's contact page.