Somers wellness committee flags higher student health visits and proposes safety, nutrition steps

The Somers Board of Education on May 26 heard a report from the district’s School Wellness Committee that health-related visits and concerns have increased across buildings.

Cheryl Fry, the district head nurse, told the board there have been more than 13,000 student health visits this year and approximately 956 students with identified medical conditions or alerts. She said the committee has noted an uptick in students arriving to school ill and a rise in mental‑health–related and somatic complaints among elementary students.

To respond, the district has established emergency cardiac response teams in every building, increased the availability of Stop the Bleed kits, placed LifeVac choking devices in cafeterias, and begun implementation of nasal epinephrine (NEFI) with accompanying staff training. The committee also described ongoing nutrition and food‑security concerns: staff members and building entrance monitors are frequently providing snacks or meals to students, and the group discussed possible formal breakfast or snack options to address persistent needs.

The report did not include a motion or vote on any policy or funding change. Board members asked for further follow‑up and clarity on program costs and operational responsibilities; the public minutes note continued discussion of parent awareness and food‑purchase choices but do not record binding direction or budget approvals.

The district’s wellness discussion was presented during routine administrative reports; the Board did not take formal action on the committee’s recommendations at the meeting.