Spokane Public Schools and CHAS Health ushered in the opening of a new school-based health clinic (SBHC) at Joel E. Ferris High School last week.
The new space offers on-site medical care, behavioral health support, immunizations, sports physicals, and more to Ferris students and staff right on campus.
Ferris Principal John O’Dell said having a health clinic inside the school is a tangible way to honor the whole child.
“We recognize that our kids, if they're hungry, if they have health issues, if they're tired, they can't learn as well,” he said. “And this is one way we can really support our students and our families to make sure their needs are taken care of and they can focus on the learning that they need to do.”
Dr. Yvette Rosser with CHAS Health spoke of the success at other Spokane SBHCs, which are now located at Rogers, Shadle Park, and North Central high schools as well as Ferris.
“Our families are happy we're here. Patients are really appreciating it and we love it,” she shared. “It's a wonderful way to deliver medicine to some of those patients who might not otherwise be able to access it.”
Spokane City Council Member Zack Zappone, who is also a teacher at North Central High School, helped secure funding for the clinic.
“This is a great partnership that really has benefits for all working people and families in our community,” he said. “And I'm really grateful for the school district and for CHAS and for the city council and the administration for supporting partnerships.”
Thank you to Spokane School Board President Jenny Slagle, Board VP Hilary Kozel, Board Director Nikki Otero Lockwood, City Council President Betsy Wilkerson, City Council Member Paul Dillon for also attending last week’s opening event
IN THE NEWS
The Spokesman-Review: A fourth high school CHAS-run clinic opens in Spokane Public Schools
KREM: The CHAS Health Clinic at Ferris High School held its grand opening Wednesday
KHQ: Spokane high schools add clinics for student health care access