School-Based Medical and Mental Health
Providing comprehensive medical and mental health services to students with or without insurance.
Dr. Robert B Appleby School Based Health Centers
The Dr. Robert E. Appleby School Based Health Centers (SBHCs) have been a cornerstone of Norwalk's educational community since 1986. Our centers are located in the school providing medical and mental health services to children and adolescents, ensuring timely and accessible care when they need it the most. We take pride in providing these services at no out-of-pocket cost to patients. Our presence in the school means that we are part of the community, participating in events and often on a first name basis with children and school staff.
Program Director
Ayesha Santana
Ayesha Santana is the dynamic Director of Human Services Council School-Based Health Centers (SBHC), calling Norwalk, CT her home base. With an unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch, patient-centered health care, Ayesha has dedicated over a decade to serving Connecticut residents. She’s not just in the business of health care – she’s a force for transformative change.
At the heart of Ayesha’s mission is school-based health care, where she orchestrates a symphony of care that seamlessly integrates with students’ academic pursuits. With her team of dedicated clinicians and staff, Ayesha is reshaping the landscape of student well-being, positively impacting graduation rates, absenteeism, tardiness, grade promotion, withdrawal/dropout rates, failing grades, and disciplinary problems. Her vision is to ensure that every student, regardless of circumstance, has access to top-tier health and wellness services through SBHCs.
Ayesha’s academic pedigree is as impressive as her professional track record. She earned her Bachelor’s in Applied Science from Monroe College, Bronx, NY, and then went on to achieve her Master’s Degree in Public Health Administration from Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY. Her journey to the top includes standout roles such as Interim Chair and Adjunct Professor at Mandl College in NYC’s Health Administration department, and Program Coordinator for WTC at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Most recently, Ayesha held the prestigious position of Director of Operations for Optimus Health Care, the second-largest non-profit health care organization in Fairfield County, where she left an indelible mark from 2014 to 2021.
Ayesha Santana is not just a director – she’s a visionary leader, a catalyst for change, and a relentless advocate for community health. With her at the helm, the future of health care in Connecticut is brighter than ever before.
About the Program
Our licensed outpatient clinics are committed to improving the overall physical and emotional well-being of students, enhancing their educational experiences, and fostering a sense of responsibility for their own health. We operate within Norwalk's high schools and middle schools. Our dedicated team includes Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Office Administrators, a part-time Family Practice Physician, Adolescent Psychiatric Consultant, and a Program Director. We collaborate closely with school personnel, ensuring a seamless integration of healthcare and education.
Services
- Diagnose and treat acute illnesses and injuries promptly
- Provide preventative services, outreach, family support, and health education
- Encourage healthy behaviors and well-being among adolescents
- Identify and address health issues early to reduce morbidity and mortality rates
- Offer comprehensive counseling services, including crisis intervention, individual, group, and family therapy, focusing on various mental health concerns and substance use issues.
Important Information
- Services available to all students with a signed permission slip on file
- No out-of-pocket charges for any provided service
- Confidentiality maintained, except in extreme circumstances where a threat to one's self or others is identified
- HUSKY information and Presumptive Eligibility sites available for all studentsand the community
Registration Forms
School Based Health Center Locations
-
Norwalk High School
23 Calvin Murphy Drive
Norwalk, CT 06851
Phone: (203) 838-4481 ext. 13340 -
Nathan Hale Middle School
176 Strawberry Hill Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06851
Phone: (203) 899-2910 -
West Rocks Middle School
81 West Rocks Road
Norwalk, CT 06851
Phone: (203) 899-2970 ext. 1760 -
Roton Middle School
201 Highland Ave
Norwalk, CT 06853
Phone: (203) 899-2930
Our Impact
92%
Of students get back to class on the same day
2,200
Students Enrolled
7,500
Health Care Visits