February 2021: School-Based Health Care Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Michigan’s school-based and school-linked health centers (also known as child and adolescent health centers) have been delivering comprehensive primary health care, mental health care, and prevention services for over 30 years; and,

WHEREAS, there are over 125 school-based and school-linked health centers and programs in the state of Michigan delivering a range of primary, preventive, early intervention, and mental health services to children and youth of all grade levels in urban, rural, and suburban schools across the state; and,

WHEREAS, children and youth served by school-based and school-linked health centers show improved rates of school attendance, enhanced scores on standardized tests, fewer absences due to illness, and increased immunization rates, while having their wellness and health care needs addressed; and,

WHEREAS, greater attention, training, and resources must focus on the social emotional and mental health needs of Michigan’s children prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and certainly during and post-pandemic; and,

WHEREAS, School-Based Health Care Awareness Month is a time to acknowledge the commitment and passion that school-based health center staff and parents/guardians show for all Michigan children and youth and to recognize the critical role they play in improving the health and well-being of all Michigan children;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 2021 as School-Based Health Care Awareness Month in Michigan.