School Health Education Resources

http://www.actionforhealthykids.org

Composed of 51 different state organizations and affiliated groups, this organization provides information about promoting child health and exercise. The site also includes fact sheets, action tools, and lesson plans that educators can use in planning to revitalize their school culture and promote better health.

http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dash/index.htm

This section of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site focuses on issues related to young people and school health through current health data, information about its programs, and best practices in school health education and health programs. Here you can also find the results of the CDC’s School Health Policies and Programs Study (http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dash/shpps), a national survey of school health programs in the 50 states, seen from the state, district, school, and classroom levels. The site’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System allows state-by-state comparisons for the CDC’s designated adolescent risk behaviors that include alcohol and drug use, injury and violence, nutrition, physical activity, and sexual behaviors.

http://www.aahperd.org

The American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) and its affiliated groups support and assist those involved in physical education, leisure, fitness, dance, health promotion, and education and all specialties related to achieving a healthy lifestyle. The AAHPERD site has a link to its affiliated organization, the American Association for Health Education (http://www.aahperd.org/aahe). AAHE promotes high standards for health education not only in preK–12 school settings, but also in hospitals, universities, and community and public organizations.

http://www.ashaweb.org

The American School Health Association advocates for high-quality health instruction, health services, and a healthful school environment.

http://www.cahperd.ca/e

CAHPERD’s Web site offers extensive information about the organization’s history and philosophy. Information about upcoming conferences, workshops, and international activities and programs is available online as well.

http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity

This section of the CDC site provides information relating to the obesity epidemic in children and adolescents. It contains valuable information for those familiar with issues relating to obesity and definitions and explanations for those seeking to learn more about combating unhealthy practices in their schools.

http://www.diabetes.org/info/facts/facts_youth.jsp

An increase in overweight youth, ages 6 to 19, has led to an increase in type 2 diabetes in the same age group. This American Diabetes Association Web site provides further information about type 2 diabetes, how to live with it, and other helpful resources.

http://www.drugs.indiana.edu/health/k-12.html

This portal site provides an array of links for school health educators ranging from information about tobacco and nutrition to science and health museums.

http://www.newtrier.k12.il.us/academics/kw/information/default.htm

Learn how New Trier Township High School in Winnetka, Ill., integrates health education and physical education in its 9–12 Kinetic Wellness program. Details of the department’s philosophy, curriculum, and learning goals can be found at the site.

http://www.rock-hill.k12.sc.us/departments/health/Default.htm

With a federal grant, four middle schools in Rock Hill, S.C., have hired school-based health coordinators to help teachers integrate health topics into the curriculum and draw together various aspects of school health education and services to help students and staff live healthier lives.

http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/reports/obesity.html

This U.S. Department of Agriculture site examines the causes and risks of obesity. It also contains information on heredity and safe dietary practices.

http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/obesity

This section of the Surgeon General’s Web site provides a breakdown of statistical information about obesity and overweight children. It also offers information on steps parents and teachers can take to help ensure that students develop healthier lifestyles.

http://www.washoe.k12.nv.us/wellness

The Web site for this award-winning staff wellness program in Washoe County, Nev., shows just how extensive and demanding such a program can be for school employees. Numerous links to health information, staff stories, exercise regimens, eating programs, and health news can be found here.

http://www.wiredforhealth.gov.uk/cat.php?catid=842

Learn more about school health initiatives in the United Kingdom at this government Web site. The National Healthy School Standard program intends to help British schools “reduce health inequalities, promote social inclusion, and raise educational standards.” Online case studies, research, and publications offer details of what schools, local education authorities, and communities are doing to ensure better health education and outcomes from preprimary through secondary education.

Deepshikha