Students, clinicians and educators gathered for the dedication of the Akron Children’s Mandel JDS Clinic at the Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School in Beachwood on Oct. 20, celebrating a partnership between the two entities that will prioritize students’ health and advocacy.

Akron Children’s, which operates its main campus in Summit County, has partnered with the Mandel JDS to sponsor its school clinic – one of many outreach projects that the hospital has completed in an initiative to extend its reach to neighboring communities.

Jay Leberman, head of school at Mandel JDS, said that the partnership reflects a shared commitment from both educators and healthcare professionals toward the health of the school’s students.

“(Akron Children’s) generosity supports not only this clinic, but also the broader work of our school, and the programs and resources that benefit our students and our whole community,” Leberman said at the event. “We’re really fortunate to be a partner with (Akron Children’s), and one that recognizes the importance of supporting children in every aspect of their development. Today’s dedication is a wonderful reflection of this shared commitment.”

The partnership kicked off with a celebration that featured mascots, refreshments and a student art activity led by the Cleveland Museum of Art Studio Go team.

Dr. Daniel Goldstein, an anesthesiologist at Akron Children’s whose children previously attended Mandel JDS’ early childhood program, said that for Akron Children’s, the partnership reflects a commitment by the hospital to bring pediatric care and support closer to families in Beachwood.

“Our children are our most important thing in this world,” Goldstein said. “Their health, their education and their sense of security deserve our deepest attention, and caring for them is a responsibility we all share.”

Goldstein said that he understands the unique perspective that parents, teachers and clinicians have when assessing a child’s needs. The partnership will allow those voices to come together for the betterment of a child’s health, he said.

“When we listen to one another and share what we notice, we can better understand what your child needs,” Goldstein said. “Sometimes, the school nurse is at the forefront of that connection.”

To signify the partnership, a plaque outside of the clinic’s entrance was unveiled by the school’s student council members and read, “Mandel JDS Clinic sponsored by Akron Children’s.”

“I hope that when families pass it, they feel reassured that there’s a team here paying attention, working together, and keeping their children’s well-being at the center,” Goldstein said.