Staff describe Team Smile dental day that brought free screenings and care to district students

At the May 20 meeting, staff presented Team Smile, a partnership event coordinated through the University at Buffalo Dental School that provided free dental screenings, X-rays, cleanings and—when parent consent allowed—extractions for 28 district students who traveled by bus to the Bills Field House. Presenters said the event combined oral-health services with interactive education and recreational activities.

Presenters (introduced as Lisonbee Gardner, a GLP social worker, and Antoinette Backard, the district's pre-K–5 psychologist) emphasized that Team Smile deployed interdisciplinary teams—occupational therapists, physical therapists, special education teachers, volunteer dentists and hygienists—to support children with sensory, social and behavioral needs. ‘‘They used an array of techniques: weighted lap pads, sensory tools and modeling,’’ one presenter said, noting the staff took time with each child and adapted procedures as needed so students could participate without being rushed.

Board members praised the presenters and the district cafeteria for meeting restrictive food guidelines for the trip. Superintendent remarks thanked the staff for coordinating the opportunity and highlighted that the district was among the first to receive an earlier UPK grant that helped expand full-day pre-K services.