Highland Elementary To Become Community Health Center

School starts Wednesday for students with Mid-Del Schools. The district voted to close Highland Park and Steed Elementary School this year due to low enrollment rates.

The school went up for bid following a report showing enrollment at Mid-Del Public Schools decreased dramatically due to COVID-19. Now, Highland Park will be serving the community in a different way.

Isabella Lawson said Community Health Centers of Oklahoma recently bought the more than 70,000 square foot building for $800,000.

After years of searching, the organization is able to expand services and open a health center in the Mid-Del area.

“There was a need and a shortage of healthcare services, a shortage of dental services, and definitely a shortage for behavioral health services,” Lawson said.

According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, there's a need for mental health care in the area. Lawson said this new center will bridge the gap by bringing services to those who need it.

“We hope that we provide convenience. We want you out of the emergency rooms. We want you to be accountable and preventative care…come to the doctor for those regular routine checkups,” Lawson said.

Community Health Centers plans to offer a one stop shop for those checks up along with other services. They want the community's input as well.

“Not only are we required to do a town hall or a community gathering we’re also going to do a survey,” Lawson said.

Lawson said they plan on doing renovations to the school for the rest of the year and opening their doors at the start of 2023.

Mid Del schools said students and staff will start the upcoming school year at three different Mid-Del schools.