Goodrich – Updating the health team is Goodrich schools? remedy to
illness-related learning issues.
Karen Khal, R.N., recently joined the Goodrich schools health action team as
Reid Elementary’s health care liaison.
Part of Khal’s role is to coordinate care so health needs are met even in
her absence.
That doesn’t eliminate the need for a caring health professional to attend to the inevitable bumps and scrapes of childhood.
‘One (nurse liaison) for each building is the goal,? said Reid principal
Paul Minns. ‘Especially for elementary-level needs, such as at recess time,
we’ve found having one person in each building a great asset.?
In Nurse Khal’s office, tucked behind the main office reception area, a
small child appears, stifling a sniffle. With a note of sympathy in her
voice, Khal invites him to share his troubles.
Because a sick or injured child can’t concentrate on learning, the team was
implemented in the 1990s to address health concerns.
The nurse liaison helps the team with first aid and illness management,
assists with immunization information, aids school staff in safe administration of medication, provides health information to students, staff, and parents, and assists with health education programs and activities.
The team-approach to school health issues is part of the Genesee County
School Health Services Program.
Although the program is part of the
Goodrich School District budget, it’s also funded by the Community
Foundation of Greater Flint and the United Way of Genesee County.
The goal of the program is to decrease health barriers to learning, say
school administrators.
As an experienced R.N., Khal is prepared to take on the responsibilities of
a nurse liaison. As a mom, she’s prepared to give the caring attention young
children need.
Khal and her husband, along with their three daughters, reside in Grand
Blanc.
‘I love the area out here,? she said. ‘The people here have been very warm
and welcoming.?
To learn more about the Goodrich Schools health team, go to
http://www.goodrich.k12.mi.us/reid/Health/Sept%2004%20Goodrich.htm.