POMPANO BEACH, Fla. — A South Florida school principal plays a huge role in her school, overseeing both administrative and educational functions.
Principal Colleen Stearn, of Cross Creek Elementary School in Pompano Beach, prioritizes her students above all.
“I’m a firm believer where there is a will, there is a way,” Stearn told Local 10’s Michaila Hightower.
Stearn told Hightower that while doing well in the classroom is important, having an elite smile and clean, shiny teeth is even more so.
However, seeing a dentist is something most children at the school can’t easily access.
In fact, state health data reveals that although millions of children qualify for Medicaid, the American Dental Association reports that 74 percent of dentists in Florida do not accept it.
This means that if a visit isn’t covered by insurance, many families can’t afford to book an appointment.
“We have students who have witnessed parents overdose on drugs, have their parents carted away to prison,” Stearn said.
So, what did Stearn do to spread the message and ensure these children get the help they deserve?
“I said, ‘Well, good ol’ Facebook. Let’s give it a shot,’” Stearn said.
Stearn didn’t expect much engagement, but the complete opposite happened -- her post blew up instantly.
Dr. Justine Bons, of Smile Perfect Deerfield, was the first to respond to the post.
“That scrolling sometimes has positive effects,” Bons said.
Her dental office came together and is now providing free cleanings, exams, and fillings for Stearns’ students.
Not only did Bons help out, but Nadine Theis, of Navy’s Sweet Addictions bakery, also pitched in on the fun.
“I hit her up and I said, ‘I’m not a dentist, but I am a baker, and I’ve always wanted to donate some cakes,’” Theis said.
Every month now, Nadine brings cakes from her bakery — decorated, dazzled and personalized for each child’s birthday.
What started as a plea for dental care quickly grew, turning into a community rallying around its kids.
For those who are interested in helping out Stearn’s students and/or staff members, email Stearn at Colleen.Stearn@browardschools.com and copy her office manager at Danielle.Austin@browardschools.com.
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