ERIC Number: EJ1478957
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Sep
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-4391
EISSN: EISSN-1746-1561
Available Date: 2025-07-01
Advancing Condom Availability in Chicago Public Schools: Lessons from a Multi-Sector Partnership
Julia Liu1; S. Parchem2; M. DiPaolo3; K. Ramirez-Mercado3; T. DeClemente3; E. Jarpe-Ratner1
Journal of School Health, v95 n9 p783-790 2025
Background: Condom availability programs (CAPs) in schools are a strategy intended to reduce rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies among youth. Despite evidence on comprehensive sexual health education and contraceptives, these initiatives often face inconsistent implementation. Contribution to Practice: This retrospective case study examines the evolution of CAP in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), emphasizing on the cooperation between CPS and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). This case study details the transition of ad-hoc distribution to a universal condom distribution. Through interagency collaboration, CPS and CDPH developed a sustainable and scalable model for increasing access to sexual health resources into school settings. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity: This initiative highlights the importance of policy-driven health intervention in school settings and how structured collaboration can ensure equitable access to condoms. This demonstrates how institutional relationships can work together to enhance adolescents' health and wellbeing. Conclusion: The success of a universal CAP in school districts illuminates the value of cross-sector partnerships that strengthens health equity and can serve as a blueprint for other districts who face similar challenges in adolescent reproductive health services.
Descriptors: Contraception, Sexuality, Health Behavior, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Prevention, Public Schools, Public Agencies, Educational Cooperation, Sex Education, School Health Services, School Policy, Intervention, Health, Well Being, Adolescents, School Districts
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) (DHHS/CDC), Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Illinois (Chicago)
Grant or Contract Numbers: PS181807; PS131308
Author Affiliations: 1University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; 2Chicago Department of Public Health, Chicago, Illinois, USA; 3Chicago Public Schools, Chicago, Illinois, USA