SAN ANTONIO – The Southside ISD will break ground on a medical clinic in November that will provide free treatment to the district's 6,000 students.
- Ground to be broken on clinic in November
- Clinic will focus on academics and health
- District has high number of students from families at or below poverty line
Medical professionals will also see the district's teachers, staff, and community members. The clinic’s main focus will be enhancing children's academics and health.
"There is a direct correlation between attendance and academic achievement. When children are at school, they gain more knowledge because they're in class to learn," Mark E. Eads, superintendent of schools, said.
Last May, philanthropist Kym Rapier committed more than $1 million to Southside ISD so the district could provide medical, mental, and dental health treatment to children. The facility is being named in her honor.
Sixteen students from all grade levels will participate in breaking ground on the Kym Rapier Community Health Clinic.
About 85 percent of the district's children are from families that live at or below federal poverty guidelines.
"We are so grateful the district is providing these services to our children. It's a real blessing and will be a real convenience to families," Veronica Davalos, Southside ISD parent, said.
The ceremony will happen Monday, November 5.