By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera
As a former educator, I know that while this time of year is full of excitement, it is also the most critical in setting students up for success. As we welcome students back to school, we hope to ensure that they are prepared to achieve and grow. In Erie County, we have several resources that support the well-being of our students.
In 2023, the Erie County Department of Health reintroduced the Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs (CYSHCN) program alongside the Office of Health Equity. This free resource and referral program will improve care coordination for infants, children and youth from birth to 21 years old who have a serious or chronic medical, physical, behavioral, emotional or developmental condition. A diagnosis is not required to participate. The CYSHCN program will match families with community resources and provide advocacy to health care providers and school districts. To apply or learn more, visit www.erie.gov/cyshcn, call 716-858-1920 or email healthequity@erie.gov. Anyone with questions about their child’s eligibility is encouraged to call.
Another great resource for students and families is EriePath, the county’s mental health focused smartphone app. EriePath helps parents and caregivers understand the challenges that children and adolescents face, such as feelings of anxiety and depression, alcohol and drug use, and symptoms or behaviors that indicate a mental health condition. Most importantly, the app includes links to local support services. For more information, including download instructions, visit www.erie.gov/eriepath.
Erie County recently launched a new road safety awareness campaign, StreetSmart Erie County. This initiative provides safety tips for all road users, specifically motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians. This also includes our students making their way to and from school. Parents and caregivers should discuss safe behaviors with students and check-in regularly, to ensure they are taking the proper precautions.
· Walkers/Bikers: Encourage use of crosswalks, helmets and visibility gear.
· Bus Riders: Remind students to cross in front of the bus; stay alert at stops and follow driver instructions.
· New Drivers: Reinforce safe driving habits, awareness of school zones and avoidance of distractions.
· School Zones & Parking Lots: Practice caution during drop-off and pick-up, obey posted speed limits and watch for pedestrians.
Learn more about this initiative at www.erie.gov/streetsmart.
I also remind everyone that September is National Preparedness Month. This annual campaign reminds residents to develop plans to mitigate risks and respond to emergencies and disaster situations. Families can involve children in making sure you are ready to handle the most common types of emergencies that you might experience. Talk through scenarios such as what to do if there is a fire inside the home, an extreme weather event that happens when kids are at school, or
another emergency that could disrupt your family’s life. New York State’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has resources and activities specifically for children, visit www.dhses.ny.gov/kids for more information.
I wish all across Erie County a happy, healthy and safe start to the 2025-26 school year!