A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Compendium of School-Based and School-Linked Programs for Pregnant and Parenting Adolescents, February 1999

Programs in Public Schools

Cleveland Public Schools
Healthy Family/Healthy Start Outreach Program

Agency: Cleveland Public Schools Healthy Family/Healthy Start Outreach Program
1380 East 6th Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Telephone:
Fax:		 (216) 574–8380
(216) 574–8669
Contact Person: Esther M. Butler, Supervisor
Annual Budget: $623,000
Primary Funding Source: Healthy Family/Healthy Start funding through the City of Cleveland Department of Public Health

Mission:

Provide services that decrease adolescent pregnancy and improve health care and parenting skills for pregnant and parenting adolescents.

Profile:

The program, located in 39 middle and high schools, has offered prevention and intervention services since 1995. Annually, the program reaches approximately 381 pregnant teens, 188 adolescent mothers, and 10 teen fathers, ages 12 to 19. The population served includes African-American (54 percent), white (21 percent), Hispanic (8 percent), Asian (1 percent), and American Indian (less than 1 percent) students.

Description of Service Model:

Healthy Family/Healthy Start has established a collaborative referral network of individuals and organizations, including neighborhood-based resources. The network includes guidance counselors, school nurses, health and special subject teachers, drug-free school liaisons, faculty team members, and linkages to special projects and initiatives. Prevention outreach specialists link students directly with the health care providers and support services they need.

The Outreach Program works in collaboration with Cleveland Public Schools Education Office to design action plans and programs for adolescents to reduce initial and repeat pregnancies, build parenting skills, reduce dropout rates of pregnant and parenting teens, and increase the number of babies born with comprehensive prenatal care. Staff members answer student questions and collaborate with teachers to address topics identified as needed. Outreach specialists also work with the Health Education Office and other related resources to develop materials and provide training that will enhance the kindergarten through 12 grade health and safety curriculum.

Evaluation Methods:

The program assesses its success through case management evaluation, school records, and job placement records.


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