A successful strategy. Garnering community support for contraceptives services to be provided in a school-based...

The original planning group for a school-based health center sensed controversy in the community over the provision of contraceptive services at the high school. They initially made the decision to exclude contraceptive services; however, the planning group provided a stipulation in their package that an assessment of the community regarding contraceptive services be conducted after the clinic had been open for one year. This article describes the strategies and activities of the clinic staff at the one-year point to assess community values and support comprehensive services to adolescent students. We began with fact gathering, then planned a parent survey and faculty survey, followed by faculty focus groups, meetings with clergy and a second survey that included all parents in the school, as well as parents of incoming students. Community forums were held to obtain feedback and provide information. Our efforts culminated in a school board vote of six to one to allow us to provide contraceptive services.