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MCCSC outlines health and safety, boosts nursing and attendance supports after recent legislation
Summary
District staff described an integrated health and safety approach, reported increases in registered nurses (from 11 to 13), vaccination and dental clinic activity, community partnerships, and explained new attendance law triggers that require school intervention and prosecutor notification after defined thresholds of unexcused absences.
District staff presented a combined health, safety and attendance update, saying the corporation is using an integrated model to align physical, mental and behavioral health services and to support student attendance and well-being.
Miss Harmon outlined the district’s health curriculum and community programming, including nutrition education, school gardens, Backpack Buddies weekend food support, and the child-nutrition department’s state USDA recognition. She said the district expanded registered-nurse staff from 11 to 13 to improve student-to-RN ratios and that all buildings have AEDs and are stocked with first-aid supplies and Narcan.
The presentation highlighted community partners that provide mental-health and wraparound services, including IU Health (school-health coordinator), Centerstone, Monroe County Youth Service Bureau, Middle Way House, Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Girls Incorporated.
On attendance, staff explained new legislative provisions (referenced in the presentation as SEA 282 and SEA 482) that require schools to notify families and implement a truancy-prevention plan after five unexcused absences in a 10-school-day period and to notify the prosecutor’s office after ten unexcused absences (habitual truancy). Staff said the district will use ParentSquare templates to automate letters and that attendance plans may last up to 45 school days before reassessment.
Board members asked whether safety plans included outbreak response; staff confirmed plans cover a broad array of emergencies including outbreaks. Board members also discussed the district’s digital SmartPass app, which staff said is in use at the secondary level to track student location and support accountability in emergencies.
The presentation emphasized prevention, partnerships, and early interventions to keep students in school and connected to supports.
