February 2022: 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 200 school-based and school-linked health center and program 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, less absenteeism due to illness, and increased immunization rates, while having their wellness and health care needs addressed; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan schools are recruiting and in the process of hiring 560 more school psychologists, school social workers, school counselors, and school nurses with the help of funding from the FY22 State School Aid Act; this $240 million investment aids crucial support for our children's mental health and physical needs; and,

WHEREAS, School-Based Health Care Awareness Month is a time to acknowledge the commitment and passion that school-based health center staff and parent/guardians show for all Michigan children and youth. We also 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 2022 as School-Based Health Care Awareness Month in Michigan.