While laying a strong foundation for academic success, Dallas ISD is also dedicated to equipping students with the tools they need to make healthy, informed choices.
World Health Day is observed in April, and nutrition experts are taking steps to ensure students and their families within the district receive intentional care through immunization and health resources.
Sylvia Torres, a registered nurse for Dallas ISD, is working to improve students’ long-term health and plays a key role in the enrollment process for those who are new to the district.
“Since many students and their families are new to the country, I try to find economical, low-cost clinics. I am doing what I can to get them the services they need to help them in the long run,” Torres said.
In partnership with Parkland Health, the district offers free vaccinations for children without insurance, as well as free tuberculosis testing through the Dallas County Health Department.
“We have seen an increase in numbers. My hope is that we become a regular place for people to seek assistance and care,” Torres said. “I want them to know that the district is another option, because there can be language and transportation barriers for parents.”
This school year, the department has successfully vaccinated more than 1,000 students and now provides services through its partnership with Parkland Health every Wednesday.
Jennifer Finley, executive director of Health Services, is leading the district’s efforts in community support, focusing on maternal health, child abuse awareness, immunization, and other resources that address children’s overall well-being.
One of the district’s newest partners is Vision to Learn, the nation’s largest school-based vision provider. This month, the Health Services Department will distribute glasses to students at J.P. Starks Math, Science and Technology Vanguard.
“Whenever we get those types of services, we make sure that we try to distribute them equitably across the district and not just focus on one area, for instance. We always try to spread resources as geographically as we can,” Finley said.
Additional health services, such as low-cost health insurance for students and immunization requirements for the school year, are located at Dallas ISD’s Health Service Department website.
