Coordinated School Health Where Health and Academics Merge CSH Director: Kim Travis Coordinated School Health (CSH) is an effective system designed to connect health (physical, emotional and social) with education. This coordinated approach improves students' health and their capacity to learn through the support of families, communities and schools working together. The CSH approach consists of eight major components.  By definition, all Coordinated School Health components work together to improve the lives of students and their families.  Although these components are listed separately, it is their composite that allows CSH to have significant impact. The eight components include: health education, physical education/physical activity, health services, nutrition services, health promotion for staff, counseling and psychological services, healthy school environment and student/parent/community involvement. Eight Components of Coordinated School Health By definition all Coordinated School Health Components work together to improve the lives of students and their families. Although these components are listed separately, it is their composite that allows CSH to have significant impact. Physical Education/Activity/Wellness Component: Physical education is planned, sequential instruction that promotes lifelong physical activity. School Nutrition Services: School nutrition services integrate nutritious meals with nutrition education promoting healthy dietary behaviors. Healthy School Environment: A healthy school environment includes assurance of a safe place to learn, as well as a healthy and supportive environment that fosters learning. Health Education: Healthy principles are incorporated into each subject taught. Health education is a planned, sequential, preK-12 curriculum and program that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions of health. Mental Health/School Counseling: Activities that focus on cognitive, emotional, behavioral and social needs of children and families. Health Services: School health services promote the health of students. School nurses are often the child’s point of entry into the health care system. School Staff Wellness: School site health promotion for staff is designed to maintain and improve the health and well being of school staff who serve as role models for students. Student, Family & Community Partners: This component involves partnerships among schools, families, community groups and individuals. It is designed to share and maximize resources in addressing the healthy development of students and their families. Why Coordinated School Health? · Students learn to make healthy decisions · Physically active students are more alert and concentrate better in the classroom. · When nutritious food is available at school, students are not hungry and can learn better. · More students have access to health care · Students and families get emotional support during critical times. · Teachers and staff can be role models for physical fitness and health. · Students who feel secure and cared for can focus on learning. · With family involvement in school, programs reflect the needs, priorities, and values of the community. For more information regarding the Coordinated School Health Program, please contact us at 775-8414; ext. 7127 or Kim Travis, CSH Director traviski@daytoncity.net