SPS, Jordan Valley announce partnership to expand health care access for students

[Editor’s note: Updated 6:39 a.m., Dec. 19. Jordan Valley Community Health Center clarified the number of schools eligible for services, as well as the eligibility of students who could access them at no cost.]

A pilot program involving Springfield Public Schools and Jordan Valley Community Health Center will launch in early 2026, officials say.

According to a news release, students at 12 SPS schools will have access to medical, dental and vision care during the school day. Through the partnership, services will be offered on-site via mobile clinics. The goal is to aid families by removing health care access barriers such as transportation and time away from work.

“We are excited about this collaborative effort to connect our students and their families with needed services,” said Superintendent Grenita Lathan, in the release. “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.”

SPS and Jordan Valley officials didn’t respond to an inquiry about terms of the partnership by deadline.

“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, in the release.

Students who attend the following SPS schools will be eligible for services:

• Academy of Exploration

• Bowerman Elementary School

• Boyd Elementary School

• Campbell Early Childhood Center

• Fremont Elementary School

• Hillcrest High School

• Pleasant View K-8

• Reed Academy

• Truman Elementary School

• Watkins Elementary School

• Weller Elementary School

• Williams Elementary School

Families received information earlier this month about the services offered and how they can schedule an appointment for their children, according to the release. Students with dental or medical Medicaid and medical insurance are eligible for services at no cost to themselves or their household.

Officials say services include immunizations, physical exams, sports physicals, dental cleanings and eye exams.