On August 6 and 7, nearly 350 nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals gathered at Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus for The Children’s Trust’s HealthConnect School-Based Health Professional Development Conference. Themed "Navigating the Future: Healthcare Now and Beyond," the conference focused on equipping health care professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to address the evolving health care needs of students.

This year's conference focused on the continued partnership between The Children's Trust, Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of six Trust-funded healthcare agencies that provide services in school-based clinics: Borinquen Health Care Center, Citrus Health Network, Jessie Trice Community Health Center, Community Health of South Florida, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and the University of Miami.

Comprehensive services for a healthier future

These agencies provide services in 140 schools across the county, going far beyond the basic requirements. Their dedicated professionals are on-site to handle critical events, perform essential screenings, address minor injuries and offer mental health support. They also serve as vital links to community resources, helping families find medical homes and navigate mental health concerns. It is anticipated that over 85,000 students will benefit from these services during the upcoming school year.

The value of school-based health services

Carol E. Brogan, Associate Director of Programs at The Children’s Trust, highlighted the critical role of school-based health services. "These programs are invaluable in identifying student needs through screenings, providing immediate care during emergencies and serving as a strong support system for families," she said. "We've heard countless stories about the positive impact these services have on students and their families, including one parent who called their child’s therapist an 'angel to their family.'"

The HealthConnect Professional Development Conference served to put a spotlight on the dedication of these health care providers and their ongoing efforts to support the health and success of students throughout the community. The Children’s Trust looks forward to another successful year of providing essential health services to our community’s children and youth.