Public Health Nursing School Health Services support the health and well-being of students across South Dakota. Public Health Nurses partner with schools, families, and healthcare providers to promote healthy students, improve school attendance, and support readiness to learn.
School Health Services may include health screenings, prevention education, school-based health support, and connections to additional health resources for students and caregivers. These services help identify health concerns early and ensure students have the support they need to succeed in school and in life.
Find a Public Health Nursing Office Near You Learn About School Health Exclusions
School Health Nursing Support
Public Health Nurses work with school districts to support student health and wellness. Services may vary by district, but can include:
- Student health screenings
- School-based immunization services
- Health education and prevention programs
- Support for student health needs during the school day
- Coordination with families and healthcare providers when health concerns arise
- Connections to community health resources
These services help schools create healthy learning environments and support the overall well-being of students.
Student Health Screenings
Health screenings help identify potential concerns that may impact a student’s ability to learn and thrive.
Vision Screening
Vision screenings are recommended for students in:
Kindergarten | 1st grade | 3rd grade | 5th grade | 7th grade
Hearing Screening
Hearing screenings are recommended for students in:
Kindergarten | 5th grade | 7th grade
Early identification of vision or hearing concerns can help ensure students receive appropriate care and support for learning.
Healthy Smiles
Oral health plays an important role in overall child health and school success. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions, and prevention can help reduce long-term dental problems.
Public Health Nursing Services may connect schools and families to oral health resources and programs that promote healthy dental habits and preventive care.
School Height & Weight Project
The Department of Health has administered the School Height & Weight project since 1998. This voluntary program tracks childhood obesity in South Dakota. Information about the survey and the past year’s reports can be found below.
School Health Education Programs
Public Health Nursing Services work with schools to provide prevention and health education programs that support healthy behaviors among students.
Teen Outreach Program (TOP)
The Teen Outreach Program is an evidence-based youth development program that supports students in building healthy relationships, developing life skills, and making positive choices.
CATCH My Breath
Catch My Breath is a youth e-cigarette and vape prevention program specific to grades 5-12. The evidence-based program was shown to substantially reduce students’ likelihood of vaping in the year following program implementation. It is free to U.S. schools. Can be implemented into the classroom at any time. CATCH My Breath also has mini-lessons surrounding substance misuse for K-8.
Additional Resources
- South Dakota Department of Health
- South Dakota Department of Education
- South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks — Outdoor Learning Opportunities
- Environmental Protection Agency — Idle Free School Zones Toolkit
Contact Public Health Nursing Services
For questions about School Health Services or to learn more about available programs, contact your local Public Health Nursing office.
For questions about the Teen Outreach Program or integrating the program into schools, contact:
School Health Coordinator
Lacey Wieczorek
lacey.wieczorek@state.sd.us