How We Work

Our Role

When we support children’s health, we support learning. When we support learning, we strengthen our communities.

Our priority is to ensure best practices in school-based care, address sustainability and equity of care delivered in schools, and expand school-based health initiatives, particularly in rural counties and pediatric healthcare deserts in Minnesota.

MNSBHA is here to help schools identify assets and needs and work with community partners to help fill gaps beyond what a school district can do on their own. Rooted in strong connections, MNSBHA maintains internal and external relationships that have statewide impact and local influence.

Our work together fosters student achievement and community vitality.

We are a central hub of information, resources, and support for the school-based healthcare ecosystem

Clinic Operators

Many SBHCs operate with limited staff and resources, but a lot of passion. MN has a variety of successful working models of SBHCs and we don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Through our technical support and Community of Practice we provide a framework, tools, and training to alleviate the complexity of opening and operating a SBHC.

School Administrators

New school-based health initiatives are often driven by school nurses and educators. Involving district administration, teaching staff, community partners and students themselves creates success. We help to bring together partners in a conversation about goals for the school community.

Policymakers

The biggest challenge of offering school-based care is sustainability. MNSBHA assists with long-term, statewide strategies that rely on public policy, public funding, and collaboration with state and local offices.

Healthcare organizations

For most healthcare organizations, school-based health centers can be a challenge to sustain within their standard business model. Successful school-based healthcare requires unique, specific practices. We offer collective expertise from years of practice and research in how to effectively operate SBHCs and sustain care.

Funders

Funders from private foundations to national initiatives have the opportunity to support positive health and education outcomes for future generations. A contribution to MNSBHA has an expansive impact on the safety net for children and families of Minnesota.

What do we see when we succeed?

• Increased attendance and time in class

• Fewer disruptions for busy parents

• Higher graduation rates

• Improved school climate

• Barrier-free access to mental health care

• Medicaid savings for the state of Minnesota