More than a clinic: How healthcare at school could boost student success

Despite decades of effort, Minnesota has made little progress in closing the educational gap across geography, income, race and ethnicity.

In many communities, the biggest need is making sure kids are actually present in class, both mentally and physically, on a regular basis.

That’s where bringing healthcare right into schools comes in.

At the St. Paul City School, healthcare is part of back to school.

“It’s all here. I could get the answers here,” said Joseph Chavez.

He’s one of many parents glad they can take their kids to the Open Cities School-Based Health Clinic (SBHC)...