PARK CITY, Utah — At the recent Park City School District Board of Education meeting, representatives from the Summit County Health Department presented updates on their collaborative efforts to provide vaccination clinics in local schools. This partnership has become increasingly essential in ensuring that families have easy access to vaccines, according to Phil Bondurant, the health department's director. Bondurant emphasized that the collaboration with Superintendent Lyndsay Huntsman has significantly enhanced the public health outreach within schools. This new approach marks a transition in how health services are integrated into the educational environment, fostering a more supportive network for the families. Derek Moss, the nursing director at the Summit County Health Department, reported that the department has successfully administered over 100 vaccines during a recent clinic held at Trailside Elementary School, coinciding with parent-teacher conferences. This initiative was designed to serve not just students, but also their families and school staff, showcasing a community-centered approach to healthcare. As the flu and COVID-19 seasons approach, the health department is leveraging various channels to ensure adequate vaccine distribution. Moss mentioned that school personnel have been instrumental in staffing these clinics, further bridging the gap between public health services and educational institutions. Moss also highlighted concerns regarding measles, noting that a dedicated clinic was held at McPolin Elementary. He indicated that the department is actively monitoring measles cases in the surrounding areas, recognizing the need for vigilance as the situation develops. The school-based clinics are primarily aimed at enhancing accessibility and promoting direct communication with families. During the meeting, board members discussed the importance of aligning public health messages with district communications. Bondurant pointed out a recent example where the health department collaborated with the district to review a communication that was sent out ahead of the Thanksgiving break. Looking ahead, Moss outlined the health department's commitment to continue offering school-based clinics. He stressed the importance of adapting outreach efforts to better address the barriers families and staff may encounter. Clear and consistent communication will be crucial as both the school district and the health department work together to navigate the upcoming winter season.