Hospital School Program

A bridge between home, hospital, and school

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Home > MESD Schools & Programs > Hospital School Program

The Hospital School Program provides a flexible and motivational educational experience through instruction and educational support to students up to age 21 with significant, acute medical, rehabilitation or mental health needs during the course of their hospitalization and / or ongoing treatment.

The educational impact to hospitalized children is mitigated by receiving ongoing educational services, maintaining contact with their attending districts, and by planning a reasonable and realistic transition back to school following hospitalization. Program staff involve parents in the educational process and may include siblings and other family members in the instruction. Special Education, ELL and Transition Services are also provided.

Our program offers educational services to inpatient and outpatient students receiving medical care across five hospital sites in the Portland Metro area.

Why is school so important during hospitalization?
     •     Provides a sense of purpose and belonging
     •     Offers a welcome redirection of focus
     •     Combats feelings of isolation during hospitalization
     •     Develops and maintains academic skills
     •     Offers opportunities to make real connections with peers
     •     Participation in familiar routines, like school, helps children cope with hospitalization

Who does the program serve?
Patients, their siblings, and their children, regardless of state of residency who are in kindergarten through high school diploma / GED, or up to age 21 if receiving special education services.

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"Thank you all so much for making this week such a fun experience from. You guys really helped me to understand my work when I had troubles. Especially Lori, thank you a lot for wanting me to take a break and have some fun. It was great being able to play all the fun games with you. Also, Joe you were a huge help to my math work and I don’t know if I could’ve done it without you. Overall I just want to say thank you so much for making my week better and funner."

From Blake, 5th grade
Thank you

"Being in a classroom away from home makes me feel at home."
Kenadie (Transitions Program)

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