Macon elementary school to house new health center, ‘improve student outcomes.’ See where
A second school-based health center is opening soon in Macon, Bibb County Schools announced Thursday.
The $1 million grant-funded health center was chosen to be housed at Bruce Elementary, and it will provide comprehensive health care services to students and families in the district, the district said in a press release.
Through a partnership with First Choice Primary Care, the center will offer primary care, mental health services and dental hygiene services on school grounds.
Katherine McLeod, CEO of First Choice Primary Care, said the partnership will address to critical needs in the community.
“The health center will provide high-quality care directly to students with parental consent, eliminating barriers to healthcare and improving both student health and academic success,” McLeod said. “We will be working with the Bruce Elementary staff and families to make sure they are aware of the services available and opportunities for parent involvement.”
In addition to immediate medical care, the center will also provide preventive care, mental health counseling and health education. District leaders said the center will remove healthcare barriers for students, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, without having to leave campus.
Lasharn Ferroudj, director of partnerships, projects and engagement at BCSD said the district looks forward to the positive impact the center will have on the students and their families.
“This health center at Bruce Elementary will improve student outcomes by providing easy access to vital health services, helping students staff and families stay healthy,” Ferroudj said in the press release.
Bruce Elementary was selected as the site for the center based on its student population, accessibility, and the opportunity to serve uninsured and underinsured students and families, BCSD said.
District officials said the planning process for the center is already underway, with community engagement, facility renovations and staffing scheduled to begin in the coming months.
The Georgia Department of Education awarded BCSD with a $1 million grant to fund the construction, staffing, and operational needs of the health center through October 2026.
“After this period, the center will be sustained through insurance reimbursements, Medicaid and ongoing community support,” the district said.
Bruce Elementary School is located at 3660 Houston Ave.