Board members of the Fredericksburg Independent School District in Texas are deliberating over a potential partnership with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to offer healthcare services to a “significant number of undocumented students.” Sarah Salinas, a social worker within the district, put forth the proposal.
These children, released into Texas by the Biden administration after illegally crossing the Southwest border, have been termed “undocumented” by the district.
Salinas initially introduced the idea at a board meeting held on July 17, suggesting that the school district align with the non-governmental organization Frontera Healthcare Network. She highlighted the NGO’s focus on delivering medical services to undocumented students.
During the meeting, Salinas referred to Dr. Andrea Bray, a pediatrician associated with Frontera, as the sole pediatrician in Gillespie County accepting new patients through Medicaid or other federal funding. The meeting was recorded, but it’s noted that board meetings are no longer accessible for public viewing.
Frontera Healthcare Network offers a range of clinical medical services, with a specific emphasis on serving Medicaid-eligible children or those without access to preventive healthcare. The organization’s scope encompasses medical, dental, and counseling services, catering to around 600 children.
The expansion of Frontera’s role aligns with the district’s strategic plan to strengthen community partnerships. Although Frontera did not present its proposal in person, Salinas detailed its integrated healthcare plan, which involves establishing a healthcare site at the elementary school, providing registered nurses, a doctor’s office clinic, and facilitating same-day appointments and medication.
Furthermore, Frontera Clinic is set to offer behavioral health services in middle schools, addressing the district’s recognition of the need for enhanced mental health resources in this age group.
Salinas, who offers counseling services to K-12 students, highlighted the urgent requirement for additional support. She emphasized that all medical services would require parental consent, alleviating concerns about service provision without proper authorization.
In a subsequent move, on August 14, Salinas presented another proposal in collaboration with the Caritas Family Assistance Network (CFAN) to deliver similar services.
During a recent board meeting, an agenda item titled “Consideration and Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Caritas Family Assistance Network (CFAN)” discussed the integration of CFAN’s services to benefit students and families.
Questions surrounding the partnership have emerged among concerned parents, with Sheena H. Rodriguez advocating for transparency and parental involvement. As the issue gains attention, parents and taxpayers are urging for clarity regarding the enrollment of undocumented children, sponsorship arrangements, and the vetting process.
Fredericksburg Independent School District’s exploration of NGO-backed healthcare initiatives has broader implications beyond the local level, igniting conversations about parental rights and the potential replication of such programs on a statewide and national scale.
