2. because Almost half of all children in the United States do not have regular on-going quality healthcare from a regular medical provider. Nearly 40% of Illinois children did not visit a doctor in the past year, and almost 60% did not have their annual check-up.

3. because More than 20% of children living in the United States have a diagnosable mental health problem, yet only one in five of these children receive services. Untreated mental health problems impact students’ ability to learn and increase their propensity for violence, alcohol and substance abuse.

4. because Nearly one in five of all children and teens in the United States are overweight. Nationwide, the number of overweight young people has more than tripled since 1980. Close to 40% of Illinois third graders are overweight or at risk for becoming overweight.

5. because Children and adolescents have the right to quality, accessible, confidential, culturally competent, comprehensive health services.

7. The school setting is a sensible place to deliver care. School health centers bring health care to schools in order to enhance students’ success.

9. access Students can receive medical, mental health, dental and health education services on-site without leaving school property, or for school-linked health centers, receive these services in close proximity of the school. School health centers bring health care to schools in order to help students succeed

10. “ At first I didn’t get it. Where would they put a school health center in a school? How does it work? But it’s just like a doctor’s office . It’s more comfortable. You can walk in and be in a teen-friendly atmosphere .” -Cleotilde Hough, a student at Amundsen High School, Chicago

11. support School health centers are planned partnerships among schools, communities, providers, parents and students. Partners engage in continuous dialogue to meet the health needs of the community’s children and adolescents. School health centers support the student , the parent , the school and the community .

12. “ Using the school wellness center has been a life changing experience for my family. In a community with limited providers, the school-based facility enables students and faculty to see a health care provider and never leave the building .” -Lori Dowen, a parent from Gallatin County

13. impact National and local evaluation reveal numerous health benefits of school health centers. Research and evaluations demonstrate that school health centers represent cost-effective investments of public resources. School health centers promote student well-being and academic success.

14. The Illinois Coalition for School Health Centers strives to improve the physical and mental health of children and adolescents in Illinois by fostering the development, stabilization and expansion of school health centers.

16. The Illinois Coalition for School Health Centers is a project of The Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition

17. The Illinois Coalition for School Health Centers acknowledges the ongoing support of the Illinois Department of Human Services in the development, funding and oversight of school health centers. In addition, the following organizations are recognized for their generous support: Chicago Community Trust Lloyd A. Fry Foundation Michael Reese Health Trust Polk Bros. Foundation Prince Charitable Trust University of Illinois at Chicago, Neighborhoods Initiative VNA Foundation

18. Illinois Coalition for School Health Centers 1256 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60622 Phone: (312) 491-8161 Fax: (312) 491-8171 E-mail: [email_address] Website: http://www.ilmaternal.org/ICSHC/index.htm Design Karen Gibson Photography Roark Johnson