#United States #Aurora #Children's Colorado #Asthma Management #Colorado Schools

The New Colorado Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative

A recently launched initiative in Colorado has celebrated a significant achievement: 221 schools from various levels of education have been recognized as Asthma-Friendly Schools. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to improve the health of students suffering from asthma, connecting them to a network fostered by the Colorado Comprehensive School-Centered Asthma Program (AsthmaCOMP), backed by Children's Hospital Colorado (Children’s Colorado).

Asthma is a leading cause of absenteeism among children, impacting families and students across Colorado. The statistics reveal that certain demographics, notably Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Alaska Native populations, are disproportionately affected. This new recognition aims to honor the collaborative efforts made by school districts to provide safe and healthy environments where students can truly thrive.

Key Achievements in Asthma Management

In its inaugural year, the Colorado Asthma-Friendly Schools initiative has drawn participation from 24 school districts, which comprise over 10% of the entire state. Among the participating schools, a total of 137 nurses have actively implemented asthma-friendly practices, making a positive impact on the health and well-being of more than 120,000 students across the state. Notably, the Cherry Creek School District, with all 71 schools recognized, and the Thompson School District, with 28 of its schools gaining recognition, have emerged as frontrunners in this initiative.

Melanie Gleason, a physician assistant at Children's Colorado, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This first-year milestone is worthy of a statewide celebration, honoring the many schools, nurses, and community partners who have dedicated their time and effort to improving the health of their students.”

Criteria for Recognition

To achieve the designation of Colorado Asthma-Friendly School, institutions must demonstrate the successful implementation of four specific strategies:
1. Maximize the Delivery of School Health Services – Ensuring that health services are accessible and efficient to meet the needs of students.
2. Build Asthma Education for Staff, Students, and Families – Offering comprehensive educational initiatives that inform and empower all stakeholders about asthma management.
3. Provide Healthy School Environments – Fostering conditions that minimize asthma triggers, supporting overall student health.
4. Manage Physical Education and Physical Activity – Creating active and inclusive physical education programs that accommodate students with asthma while promoting their engagement in physical activity.

Christy Haas-Howard, an asthma specialist and school nurse, highlighted the significance of this recognition, stating, “Earning Colorado Asthma-Friendly School recognition reflects the daily commitment schools make to keeping students healthy, supported, and ready to learn.” This commitment to evidence-based asthma practices results in fewer disruptions in students’ education and better overall health outcomes.

Benefits Beyond Recognition

The initiative does not only serve as a measure of achievement but also enhances collaboration regarding asthma management among schools, parents, and the community. When schools prioritize creating an asthma-friendly environment, they foster trust and cooperation that can lead to more effective health outcomes for children.

For the upcoming 2026-2027 recognition, schools are encouraged to complete an online self-assessment by March 1, 2027, to continue their journey as asthma-friendly institutions.

The Colorado Asthma-Friendly Schools initiative is a vital component of the larger AsthmaCOMP program, funded by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Cancer, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Disease grant program. Under the leadership of Dr. Heather De Keyser from the University of Colorado and with the assistance of various educational and health organizations, the program aims to impact even more schools across the state.

Asthma navigators, present at over 50 schools in numerous districts including Aurora and Denver, work closely with students and families to provide essential education and support, while overcoming barriers to healthcare access. Training programs are also offered to school nurses to enhance their ability to manage asthma cases effectively.

About Children's Hospital Colorado

Children's Hospital Colorado stands as one of the premier nonprofit pediatric healthcare systems in the nation, committed to enhancing the health of children through diverse initiatives, patient care, and outreach. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the hospital continues to be a leader in the exploration of innovative treatments that set the standards for pediatric healthcare on a global scale. Through its extensive network of services, Children's Colorado addresses the comprehensive medical needs of children and families throughout the region.

For further information, connect with Children’s Colorado through their social media platforms or visit their official website.