How school health services link to academic goals: Views from educators and parents

This presentation will include the method, results and implication of the following study. Significance: School health services (SHS) are a vital component of the educational experience. Yet, the prevalence of public health concerns such as asthma, diabetes, obesity and health care access for school-age children continues to rise. The 2006 School Health Policies and Program Study (SHPPS) indicated most schools offer basic SHS, but few provide preventative services. Less than half the schools had a full time school nurse. One of the factors influencing SHS and school nurse staffing is the understanding held by educators and parents regarding SHS; and the link they place on services and academic outcomes. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the value school educators and parents placed on SHS and the links between services and academic outcomes. Method: A qualitative, multi-state study was conducted, interviewing 24 public school educators and parents. States with varying school nurse to student ratios were included to determine if and how having a nurse on sight influenced perspectives. Each interview was recorded and later transcribed. Data was analyzed using qualitative methods (identifying common themes). Results: Differences in understanding and need were found depending on school nurse involvement, current SHS offered, and the understanding of the purpose of education. Conclusion: Articulating the role of SHS in academic terminology will help schools understand the need for and cost benefit of services. This information will be useful using the correct terminology when planning campaigns and programs to increase SHS.