Happenings at CCHD

CCHD is excited to kick of their new blog series, "Happenings at CCHD."

Every so often, we'll feature a different employee from the Clinton County Health Department. You'll get to learn about what they do, who they get to interact with, and why they love working for Public Health.

This month we're featuring Christa VanCour, Children's Services Program Specialist.


Here's what Christa does:

I work with the Preschool Special Education program. I have a background in health education, and a master's degree in teaching. When I found this position - I knew I'd be hooked. It's the perfect crossroads between public health and education.

A typical day for me looks like this:

• I get to work and check emails and catch up on voicemail messages.
• I head to Committee on Preschool Special Education meetings at different districts around the county to help a team of people, including the child's parents, make decisions on what the best education services for them will be.
• I work with lots of different Special Education Chairpeople, their support staff, and the various provider agencies, including transportation, to help preschool children throughout the county receive intervention services.

I have a great team here at CCHD that helps children and their families from birth through age 5 identify and target areas where children may need some extra help. I love what I do, and it's very rewarding.

Promoting Student Health through Healthy Schools

Today’s children may have a shorter lifespan than their parents. This startling statistic is supported by an increasing number of children diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure) and type 2 diabetes; chronic conditions usually seen only in adults.

 

Healthy eating and increased physical activity are two of the best ways to protect against chronic diseases. Children need healthy food choices and opportunities for physical activity and schools are a great place to provide both.

 

School Wellness Policies are important tools that can be used to advance the health and safety of children and adolescents. Comprehensive school health policies that are effectively implemented can improve student’s health and academic behaviors and successes.