The first public elementary school in the state to open its own Wellness Center received a special award – and a surprise visit — yesterday.
Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long dropped in on Eisenberg Elementary School in New Castle to deliver the first award given through a new initiative called “The Lt. Governor’s Challenge.”
A former nurse, Hall-Long came up with the Challenge Award to honor schools and other institutions that encourage physical and emotional well-being.
The Wellness Center, which has an on-site nurse practitioner, offers students in-school access to healthcare, behavioral and social services with or without insurance. The center opened last spring.
The nurse practitioner can diagnose and write prescriptions and teleconference with parents. Operated by The Life Health Center in partnership with Nemours, the Wellness Center also offers annual physicals, services for children with chronic health-care needs, and behavioral health-care services.
The award is offered to communities, schools, and work sites through a nominating process which can be found by visiting www.LtGovernorsChallenge.org.
Long-Hall said, “Eisenberg is making change happen with this innovative approach. They are starting with children. But their long-term vision is to make this a center that parents can walk to in the community and that’s why the school was chosen to receive this first award.” she said.
