Educating the youth of Appalachia with KYCOM’s Mini-Med School During the spring, the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) virtually hosted its annual Mini-Med School for kids, allowing Mullins Elementary students to learn the importance of preventive medicine and a healthy lifestyle. The Mini-Med School aims to alleviate children’s fear of doctors, create a better understanding of medical equipment, foster positive role models and introduce children to career opportunities in the healthcare field.
KYCOM compiled footage of medical students performing different clinical exams, using diagnostic equipment, and explaining bones and organs into a video for the elementary school teachers to incorporate into their science curriculum. Second-year KYCOM student and American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians Club President Karly Castellaw helped to initiate a pen pal and mentor program in the fall between the first-grade elementary school students and KYCOM students.
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UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021
Due to COVID-19, KYCOM created a virtual field day to teach students about science. “Mini-med schools are designed to be casual, fun and informative while focusing on healthcare issues that are important to everyone,” said Castellaw. “It brings medicine, science and the importance of health to children in an interactive and exciting way!”
First-grade teacher at Mullins Elementary School Makynsi Pray ʼ19, says the pen-pal program was a wonderful experience for her students. “My students have enjoyed participating in the pen-pal program and getting to know the KYCOM students. After a few exchanges, I began to notice when something exciting happened at home or school, my students would ask if they could write to their ʻdoctor friendsʼ and tell them about it,” said Pray. “This opportunity has provided a great incentive for my students to work hard and find community with someone who became such a positive influence in their academic lives. I am very thankful my class was able to have this experience.”
