What is Coordinated School Health?

Published September 6, 2007

The premise of Coordinated School Health (CSH) is based on proven results that healthier students will miss fewer days of school, are more mentally alert and perform better on tests. 

In the last IN FOCUS issue there was an intentional design to overwhelm with health (or should I say unhealthy) statistics.  Even if only a few were actually read, the reader would hopefully get the idea that there are problems that need to be addressed.   

I find it humorous when schools adopting CSH can be referred to as the “cupcake police.”  Nothing could be further from the truth.  CSH is about creating, not restricting.  CSH is about creating the absolute best school environment to help each student achieve his or her potential.  In order for that to happen we have to create messages that are consistent with that goal since inconsistent messages can be confusing to the students.  The plan is to introduce many of the new elements of CSH in a fun and an exciting way. 

In the spirit of the upcoming election year, let me also make this pledge.  I never have and I never intend to give up my cupcakes either!  Of course this statement now poses a burning question in everyone’s mind - Can a person actually take this approach and still be a healthy individual?  The best answer yes and no (now I am sounding like many a politician).  More on that in the next IN FOCUS issue.   

Article written by Ken Brooks, Williamson County Schools Health/Wellness Specialist.