PIKETON, Ohio — The Scioto Valley Local School District and Valley View Health Centers will break ground on a new school-based health facility at Piketon Jr./Sr. High School on April 24 at 1 p.m., aiming to enhance health care access for students and the community. Located at 1414 Piketon Road, the event is open to the public.
The facility, a collaboration between the school district, Valley View Health Centers (a division of the Community Action Committee of Pike County), the Appalachian Children Coalition, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, will offer comprehensive primary care, behavioral health services, case management, telehealth, and wellness programs.
“This clinic is an excellent opportunity to provide affordable, convenient health care access,” said Wes Hairston, superintendent of Scioto Valley Local Schools. “On-site care will improve academic outcomes and reduce barriers to learning, fostering a healthier school environment.”
Keith Pitts, president and CEO of the Community Action Committee of Pike County, emphasized the facility’s broader impact. “This partnership will provide behavioral health and well-care services, helping students and community members overcome social determinants of health,” Pitts said.
Funded by a $1.6 million grant from the $64 million Appalachian Children’s Health Initiative, announced by Gov. Mike DeWine in March 2024, the project targets improved health care access across 20 Appalachian counties.
The facility is expected to boost academic performance and quality of life by ensuring accessible health services for students, families, staff, and the community.