Coordinated School Health Program
All the strategies, activities, and services offered by, in, or in association with schools that are designed to promote students' physical, emotional, and social development make up a school's health program.
When a school works with students, their families, and their community to provide health services in a coordinated, planned way, then the term coordinated school health program (CSHP) applies.There are eight components that should be incorporated into a CSHP, they are:
- Health education
- Physical education
- School-based health services (example: school nurse)
- Nutrition services
- Emotional and mental health services
- Providing a clean and safe environment
- Health promotion for school staff
- Family and community involvement
Schools develop CSHP's by forming a school health advisory council or school health team, conducting an assessment, and developing an action plan.CSHP's are generally initiated at the district level and supported through district policy then implemented at the building level through programs and services provided to students and their families.The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department provides support and technical assistance to schools and school districts.
Research shows that when CSHP's are offered in schools and implemented consistently, not only will students be healthier by reducing risks for chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer but they will be more prepared for learning. Schools benefit from implementing CSHP's through improved attendance of students and staff, enhanced performance on standardized tests, and decreased disciplinary problems.
For more information on coordinated school health programs, contact Beth Wilson by phone: (253) 798-2949, or by e-mail: bwilson@tpchd.org.
