Springfield, Mo., December 18, 2025 – More Springfield children will gain easy access to vital health services thanks to a major pilot program that will be launched in 2026 by Springfield Public Schools and Jordan Valley Community Health Center.
Early next year, students at 12 SPS schools will be able to receive medical, dental and vision care during the school day. By providing these essential services directly on-site via dedicated mobile clinics, the partnership aims to remove critical barriers, including transportation and time away from work, that often prevent some families from accessing quality health care.
“We are excited about this collaborative effort to connect our students and their families with needed services,” said Superintendent Grenita Lathan. “The partnership represents a strong investment in the long-term well-being and academic success of Springfield’s children. The services provided by Jordan Valley Community Health Center not only keep our students healthy and ready to learn, but they also significantly reduce the time out of the classroom that is typically associated with doctors’ visits.”
Students who attend Campbell Early Childhood Center; Bowerman, Boyd, Fremont, Truman, Watkins, Weller and Williams elementary schools; Academy of Exploration; Reed Middle School; Pleasant View K-8; and Hillcrest High School will be eligible for services.
“We are looking forward to developing relationships with these families and supporting their health care needs both now and in the future,” said Dr. Matthew Stinson, CEO of Jordan Valley Community Health Center. “By using our mobile clinics, parents and guardians will not need to take time off work or worry about getting their children to a provider outside of their neighborhood.”
In December, families received information packets about the services offered and how they can schedule an appointment for their children. Students with dental or medical Medicaid and medical insurance are eligible for services. There is no cost to the student or their household for these services.
The scope of services provided includes:
- Pediatric Care: immunizations, physical exams and sports physicals, rapid strep and flu tests, developmental screenings and wellness checks.
- Dental Care: full exams, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, x-rays, restorations, and extractions
- Vision Care: eye exams and fittings for glasses
“When students are healthy, they are ready to learn,” explained Lee Ann Neill, SPS Director of Student Health Services. “Treating minor illnesses, addressing dental pain, or correcting vision issues directly impacts a student’s ability to concentrate, participate and succeed academically.”
“We look forward to making a difference in the lives of these children and broadening our impact by expanding services to other schools in the future,” said Chief Operating Officer for Jordan Valley, Dr. Nick Pfannenstiel.
