‘They saved my life’: JCPS expanding school clinics after life-saving impact
WLKY | Joyce Ogirri
LOUISVILLE, Ky. —
More Jefferson County Public Schools students will soon have access to health care without ever leaving campus.
After seeing success at Iroquois High School, the district is expanding its school-based health clinics to Marion C. Moore and Pleasure Ridge Park high schools next year. An effort leaders say is already making a life-changing difference.
“They saved my life. It’s a game changer,” said Leila Martinez, a math teacher at Iroquois High School.
Martinez, a single mother of five, says the clinic run by Family Health Centers has made healthcare more accessible for her entire family.
During summer school, she says a nurse noticed something was wrong.
“They did my bloodwork and she sent me immediately to the ER because my hemoglobin was three. I was about to have a heart attack,” Martinez said.
She was hospitalized for several days and now continues to monitor her health — something she says wouldn’t have been as easy without the clinic.
Staff says stories like hers show the impact these clinics can have, not just on students, but on the entire school community.
“It makes me know that I’m making a difference not only in the school, but the community,” said Jennifer Angermeier, a nurse practitioner at Iroquois High School.
District leaders say expanding access to on-site care helps catch health issues early, keeping students healthy and in the classroom.
“By identifying and treating health needs early, we’re reducing absenteeism and keeping students where they belong,” said JCPS Superintendent Brian Yearwood.
The expansion builds on the success of the Iroquois clinic — the first of its kind in the district. Since opening two years ago, it has served more than 1,800 students and staff.
Students say having care at school removes barriers many families face.
“Sometimes we don’t have time after school because my mom works. Having care during school hours is really important,” said student Liz Mejias.
“Not every student has easy access to healthcare. Having one in school means students can get treated early and not ignore problems,” said student Yahya Ahmed.
The clinics are open five days a week, with summer hours, dental care, and expanding behavioral health services.
“My goal is to teach students ownership of their health. What they do now will impact their future,” Angermeier said.
Louisville Metro and the Jewish Heritage Fund are helping fund the expansion. Leaders say each new clinic is expected to serve more than 1,000 patients every year.