Hermiston Student Health Center opens, providing free and accessible medical care to students across the school district

Wildhorse Foundation contributes the start-up costs to make the space operational

The Umatilla County Public Health Department (UCo Health) and the Hermiston School District have partnered together to reopen the Student Health Center at Hermiston High School, with the help of a $30,000 grant from the Wildhorse Foundation.

Ella Meyers (right), Wildhorse Foundation Administrator, presents a check to Umatilla County Public Health and Hermiston School District representatives for the $30,000 grant towards the start-up equipment costs needed to begin operations of the Hermiston Student Health Center.

The center serves as a space for students to seek medical care during school hours, reducing their time away from school. “There is also no out-of-pocket cost for students, regardless of insurance status, eliminating the financial burden that can often come with healthcare services,” said Alisha Lundgren, Deputy Director of UCo Health.

The $30,000 grant from the Wildhorse Foundation was used to purchase critical items needed in order to operate the space – including key diagnostic and screening equipment such as a urinalysis machine and vision screening and assessment instruments.

For the past two years, The Health Center space had been closed due to staffing shortages. UCo Health entered into the partnership with HSD to resume operations of this space. The closure of the Health Center posed significant challenges for the community.

“For many, the center was a convenient and trusted resource for addressing physical health needs. Without it, some families have faced barriers in accessing timely care, including transportation issues, longer wait times at other facilities, and reduced preventative care,” said Tricia Mooney, Superintendent of Hermiston School District.

The partnerships involved in making the space operational again represent a shared commitment to improving the health and wellness of the school district’s students, staff, and families. The Health Center became operational with its soft opening Nov. 4, 2024.

“I have noticed that upon opening, the center has been immediately been accessed. Staff have referred students for services. Staff seem eager to share about the resource to students,” said Ashley Smith, the Family Nurse Practitioner for the Health Center.

It will be launching its grand opening on Jan. 6, 2025, with a focus on widening services to all students in the school district. Any student or staff of Hermiston School District is able to seek services at the Student Health Center.

Representatives of Hermiston School District, Hermiston High School, Umatilla County Public Health Department, and Wildhorse Foundation celebrate the opening of the Health Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The space will provide wellness visits, sports physicals, immunizations, and immediate care needs, that will keep students healthy and in the classroom.

“Families appreciate the convenience of local healthcare, with students benefiting from improved attendance and well-being. Parents feel reassured, and teachers have observed positive impacts on student engagement,” said Mooney.

The space is within the high school building for ease of student access but also includes an external entry point for students from other schools within the district.

“The Health Center’s reopening under this partnership has restored a sense of security and accessibility for families seeking care,” said Mooney. “The collaboration has brought in specialized programs and health education initiatives that address a broader range of needs, such as immunizations and preventative care. By working together, the district and Public Health Department have fostered a stronger connection between the schools, students, and families, enhancing outreach and inclusivity.”

The Health Center space contains a waiting room, reception area, and three exam rooms. The center aims to provide a critical access point to free health services for the youth of the largest school district in Umatilla County.