The Greater Dayton School is changing the game for under-resourced students. Here, kids don’t have to leave the building for essential health services. They just take a quick walk down the hall for medical, dental, or mental health care.
This Ohio school opened three years ago as a private, non-religious space focused on the whole child. The idea is simple: if children receive the right support, they can achieve more, regardless of their background. According to Ryan Ernst, who leads nonprofit initiatives at The Connor Group, students here are making academic progress at twice the national average in reading and math.
The school’s dedicated approach means every student gets regular health check-ups. When they started, 56% of students had unmet mental health needs. Thanks to universal screenings and trained therapists on-site, that number has dropped to just 10%.
One key part of their success is preventive measures. Students are not only learning in classrooms; they also partake in 30 minutes of intense fitness each day—an effective mood booster that some studies suggest can work wonders compared to traditional medications.
Families also commit to rules that help create a healthier environment. For instance, parents must limit their kids’ social media use, which has shown to reduce anxiety levels among teens. “In a way, it’s like providing fluoride in the water,” Ernst explains, referring to how these guidelines can subtly aid mental health.
The school’s health model is expanding. With support from the Delta Dental Foundation, they are set to open a full-service dental suite, complete with X-ray equipment. This clinic will provide care like cleanings and exams on-site.
Looking ahead, the Greater Dayton School aims to serve 400 students and is planning a second location in Cincinnati by 2028. The foundational goal is long-term: to foster healthier, more successful adults from an early age.
Families may have initial doubts about the strict measures, but Ernst notes that many ultimately see the value. His vision is clear: by removing barriers, every child can have the potential to succeed.
In today’s fast-paced world, schools like the Greater Dayton School offer a refreshing approach. Their focus on health and wellness might just be the key to unlocking the full potential of every child.
For more information on health strategies in schools, check out the Delta Dental Foundation.
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Greater Dayton School, The Connor Group, Delta Dental Foundation
