This report of the Select Committee on California Children's School Readiness and Health, established in 2001, examines the relationship between the status of a child's health and its impact on school readiness and achievement. The report is intended to promote and facilitate continued dialogue, exploration, and research on student health and academic achievement, while putting forward a package of legislative initiatives. Information was collected through a case study of the relationship between absenteeism and academic performance in four low-performing schools. Findings of that study indicated that healthy children attended school more regularly. Additionally, 7 months of hearings and roundtables were held to gather input from parents, teachers, physicians, and others about issues, concerns, and best practices dealing with children's school success and health. Topics included dental health, nutrition, pediatric assessments, mental health, and access to health care. One theme dominating the hearings was the lack of a seamless system of health services and support programs. Mental health issues were also mentioned at every hearing. Based on the findings of the case study and hearings, this report presents recommendations in seven areas: (1) seamless services for children and families; (2) physical health; (3) dental care; (4) access to health care and coverage; (5) mental and emotional health; (6) early childhood assessments; and (7) nutrition. The report concludes with descriptions of three family-friendly models of service, the agenda for the hearings, and a list of resources. (Contains 24 endnotes.) (KB)