Local leaders gathered at Champion Middle School this morning to officially launch the Health Sciences Academies — a new education platform that will turn the focus of seven east side schools toward healthy lifestyles and health career readiness.
“The launch of the Health Sciences Academies pathway represents one of our district’s most innovative efforts in more than a decade to provide great schools and greater opportunities for every child, in every neighborhood, from cradle to career,” said Columbus City Schools Superintendent and CEO Dr. Dan Good. “Starting in pre-kindergarten and all the way through their graduation at East High School, these students will be uniquely exposed to health science-related experiences and lessons, mixed with hands-on learning and career exploration.”
The elementary schools that are featured in this new program include Beatty Park, East Columbus, Eastgate, Ohio Avenue, and Trevitt, in addition to East High School and Champion Middle School. Starting with the 2015-2016 school year, students in Pre-K, Kindergarten, and grades 5, 6, 9 and 10 will begin the tract with other grades phasing in through 2018. The program includes real-world learning experiences through partnerships with area medical facilities including University Hospital East and CarePoint East.
“Our role is to expose students to what is possible for them to achieve and work in tandem with the district to help them develop a roadmap on how to achieve their dreams,” said University Hospital East Executive Director Elizabeth Seely. “The Wexner Medical Center staff is committed to this innovative approach to teaching and learning, and we will have doctors, nurses and other health professionals engaged and involved throughout the school year.”
The Health Sciences Academies initiative originated with the PACT (Partners Achieving Community Transformation) neighborhood redevelopment efforts, which focuses on improving the Near East Side’s economy, safety, health, education and housing opportunities. PACT Executive Director Trudy Bartley said that focusing on education efforts is part of the long-term approach when working to improve the area.
“Currently, 47% of the youth in the PACT area go to schools outside of the neighborhood,” she explained. “We want to change that dynamic to not only keep families here, but attract new families as well. And when we’re able to bring more people in, that will bring more retail and services and vibrancy, so that’s the long term goal. Our priority right now is to get the schools right.”
For more information, visit www.eastpact.org.