Green Bay Reporter

As families prepare for the upcoming school year, healthcare professionals and school staff are urging parents to ensure students are ready from a health perspective. This includes making sure vaccinations are up to date, medical records are current, and that any necessary medications or medical plans are in place before classes begin.

“Each student has their own specific healthcare needs,” said Dr. Melissa Hidde, Emplify Health by Bellin Ashwaubenon Family Medicine Physician. “Before the school year begins, ensure your child has all the right documentation, medication and medical requirements fulfilled.”

Primary care providers can assist families in identifying required immunizations and coordinating any support a child may need while at school. Scheduling appointments ahead of time can help avoid delays as the first day approaches.

“Schools rely on parents to help make sure we are prepared for student medical needs, including updating student health forms in PowerSchool and having medications on hand with the proper medication consents,” noted Kat Herald, Ashwaubenon School District Nurse. “Having those items taken care of before the first day of school can help ensure a seamless transition back to school.”

Herald also encourages early communication between parents and both teachers and nurses at schools.

“We want to make each sure year is successful for our students,” said Herald, “so we are always available for conversations with parents on how we can ensure needs are met, academically or medically.”

Parents should check their PowerSchool accounts to verify that all health forms have been updated for the new academic year. School nurses will contact families if additional information is needed so they can create or update health plans and train staff accordingly.

“It’s important to have parents, teaching staff and medical providers be on the same page with what a child needs medically,” noted Dr. Hidde. “Your teachers and providers want to see every student succeed and are always ready to help.”