For many parents, the annual scramble to update medical records before the first bell rings is a stressful tradition. To ease that burden, Cherry Creek Schools is hosting a series of community health clinics designed to help families check off their medical checklists in one convenient location. Michelle Weinraub, the district’s Chief of Exceptional Student Services and Health Services, says the goal is to create a one stop shop where families can avoid the hassle of scheduling multiple individual appointments during the busy back to school season.
These services are made possible through a four year partnership between Cherry Creek Schools and Stride, which has established clinics at three different campuses. While the primary focus is getting students ready for class, these facilities are open to everyone in the broader community regardless of their financial situation. According to Weinraub, providers do not require documentation or proof of insurance, making it an essential resource for residents who are underinsured or lack access to traditional healthcare.
As students prepare for the autumn term, the clinics are offering more than just basic vaccinations. Families can bring their children in for sports physicals and routine well kid checks across various age groups. By removing these barriers to care, school officials believe they can improve overall attendance rates. The logic is simple: when kids stay healthy and have easy access to preventative care, they spend less time missing lessons and more time in the classroom learning.
The initiative will culminate in its largest event yet on Saturday, August 15 at Prairie Middle School. In addition to providing comprehensive medical screenings and shots, the school will turn the day into a wider community support event by distributing backpacks filled with necessary supplies. A mobile refrigerated food truck will also be stationed on site to ensure that families leave with both their health needs met and fresh groceries for the coming weeks.
