Nurses and community highlight school‑based health centers and vision program at San Bernardino board meeting

At the start of the meeting, multiple nurses and community representatives praised San Bernardino City Unified School District’s school‑based health services and professional development efforts.

Lynn Massey, a registered nurse who has worked in the district for decades, told the board that the district’s coordinated vision‑care system increased follow‑up care after screening from 8% to 35% over two school years and resulted in 1,900 pairs of eyeglasses provided to students. Massey thanked the board for investing in professional learning and singled out Colleen Williams, director of student wellness and support services, for leadership that supported those results.

Chandra Henson, a 28‑year district nurse, described attending the National Association of School Nurses conference and said San Bernardino’s nursing and health‑services programs — including dental and vision services and wellness clinics offering mental‑health care and immunizations — put the district at or ahead of national peers.

Jeanette Tupper Sheer described the district’s first newly opened school‑based health center at Pacific High School and cited results attributed to Hazel Health telehealth services: a claimed 40% reduction in health‑related absences and a 92% return‑to‑class rate after virtual visits. She argued the centers reduce barriers to care for families and support student attendance and achievement.

What the board will do next: Comments were recorded during the public‑comment period; no formal board action was required. Board members acknowledged the presentations and thanked staff and community partners. Staff follow‑up was noted as appropriate when public commenters request contact.