We recognize that there are statistically significant relationships between health and academic achievement. Research evidence shows that children who are healthy are at a low risk for school problems and display higher academic success than those students who are unhealthy. OMSD values the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model to promote positive health behaviors and lessen negative health behaviors.

Each OMSD school site has a full-time Licensed Vocational Nurse or Health Assistant, and a part time Registered Nurse to assist students with their health care, specialized healthcare procedures and mental health care needs. Our health service team’s priority is to keep our students healthy, which will improve attendance, and improve student achievement.  Our students may continue to face challenges due to the ongoing health, economic and mental health challenges as a result of the pandemic. The health office staff is here to support our students.

Health Services credentialed school nurses provide health-related interventions, assessments, education, screenings, specialized health care procedures and referrals. The health office team helps families navigate the healthcare system to the appropriate healthcare and mental healthcare services. We are proud to help our students gain access to basic quality health care.  Families who need health insurance assistance can be obtained through the Health and Wellness case management process.

Help your child perform better in school by:

· Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule. Most school aged children need 10-12 hours of sleep a night.

· Make sure your child eats a nutritious breakfast. In general, kids who eat breakfast have more energy and do better in school.

· The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than 2 and recommends limiting older children's screen time to no more than one or two hours a day. Too much screen time can be linked to: obesity, irregular sleep, and impaired academic performance.

· Encourage your child to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity. Physical activity boosts children’s self-esteem, improves academic performance, and helps prevent obesity.

· Make time to talk with your child every day, so he or she knows that what goes on at school is important to you. When kids know parents are interested in their academic lives, they'll take school seriously as well.