Ms. Sonya Hernandez, Health Coordinator of the Grants-Cibola County School District was guest speaker at the Double Six Art Gallery, Saturday, September 17.
Ms. Hernandez hails from Oklahoma and has made Grants her home these past 30 years. Our students are healthier because of her medical expertise and the health staff with whom she works. She expressed high praise for the nurses and health assistants who work within our schools. Her utmost wish is for a nurse in all 11 schools in the district, and to keep health assistance in the district. Currently, 14 medical staff serve the students and teachers, totaling approximately 3,200.
Parents are vital in the health care process! Paperwork must be completed, records kept and those records are returned to parents upon the student’s graduation.
Teachers are informed of student, health needs. They need information in case of classroom or school-site emergencies.
Parents, teachers and medical staff provide safety nets for the students. This cooperation benefits students’ health.
Student health issues include immunizations, info about diabetic needs, and puberty are among the many health issues the health department handles.
Many questions were asked of Ms. Hernandez. She is professional, knowledgeable, patient and gracious. Her quick smile re-assured attendees that that our students are provided with a caring, attentive, medical staff.
The recent pandemic has revealed the need for more mental-health experts. Ms. Hernandez concluded that psychologists at elementary schools are needed. The young deserve help to learn better coping skills in their future.
If you are interested and/or qualified to become a member of the district’s health department, call Ms. Hernandez at 505-285-2772 or Fax 285-2629. Thank you, Ms. Hernandez and the district’s medical staff. Your department is important and deeply appreciated!