School Health Advocates of the Month — August 2023

Thank you for your dedication to closing the gaps in children’s healthcare!

Del Valle ISD (DVISD) is just minutes outside of Austin, TX. A quick stop in their high school gym and anyone can see that sports are a big deal at DVISD. With a robust athletic program ready to raise even more banners in the years ahead, the DVISD athletic training team continues to make a huge impact on much more than sports.

The training team is led by, Thomas Allen, who is better known to generations of students and faculty as “Doc” as the district’s Head Athletic Trainer of 38 years, and he works alongside Leah Thompson and Lauren Maldonado, who enter their 12th and third years on the training staff, respectively.

During a three-day event earlier this summer, the DVISD team hosted a series of on-site SportsPhysicals+ sessions that helped ready hundreds of student-athletes, band members, drill teamers, aspiring thespians, and others in preparation for the upcoming school year.

“[Goodside Health] provides health services that the community of Del Valle does not have in their area. They have been able to refer students to providers for health services that would not normally be seen and taken care of by the family,” said Doc.

SportsPhysicals+ provide students with more than just the standard sports physical by incorporating wellness services like tobacco screenings, nutritional guidance, and mental health screenings. It’s a whole child approach that has resonated with the DVISD team, which continues to look for ways to keep their students healthy and successful in the classroom and beyond.

The DVISD Athletic Training Team’s commitment to student well-being shines through, and it was on display as they facilitated one of the most impactful SportsPhysicals+ events yet.

“Because of great communication, being proactive and creating a smooth workflow, we were able to serve hundreds of students within our community,” said Lauren. “I love seeing our student athletes grow in every aspect of life. I enjoy helping them work through all obstacles on and off the court and field.”

Added Leah, “Whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or at home, watching [students] succeed in life is amazing!”

Thank you, Doc, Leah, and Lauren for prioritizing the health and wellness of campus communities throughout Del Valle ISD!

Check out this quick video from the SportsPhysicals+ event at Del Valle High School.

About Goodside Health

Goodside Health is advancing the delivery of pediatric care by partnering with communities to provide access to telehealth, mental health, and well-care services at school, at home, and in the clinic. Relentless advocates for expanding access to care and promoting health equity, Goodside Health leverages a Whole-Child Approach to care and lives our mission of closing gaps in children’s healthcare through innovation and execution. To learn more about Goodside Health, please visit www.goodsidehealth.com.