Chapter+12

Chapter 12-Nick

Programs and Policies that Foster Health, Wellness, and Safety


 * Health-promoting schools are essential- Educators must accept the responsibility of including health as a focus in their work.
 * This promotes young adolescents to grow in competence, become for self-sufficient, and optimistic about their future.


 * Reasons to [|Promote Wellness]:
 * 1) Poor health practices drain resources from education.
 * Money that could be spent on education goes to rising medical costs.
 * Tobacco use, underage drinking, better dieting and exercise, could all be addressed by educating students.
 * 1) Students in poor health do not learn as well.
 * Students have a difficult time focusing their attention on learning when they are undernourished, under-nurtured, affected by substance abuse, or don't feel safe.
 * 1) Youthful choices affect health.
 * Six behaviors that are causing death and/or injuries for young adolescents:
 * 1) Behaviors that cause injuries, both intended and unintentional.
 * 2) [|Tobacco use.]
 * 3) [|Alcohol]and other [|drug use].
 * 4) Sexual behavior.
 * 5) Dietary behavior.
 * 6) Physical inactivity.
 * People, agencies, and organizations are necessary in both inside and outside of the school to challenge the dangerous behaviors of students. This is because the elements that influence students come from inside and outside of the school.
 * Laying a Foundation for Health Promotion
 * Community-based exploration of local concerns reveals the issues that the community can choose to address for the children. This takes some of the weight off of the shoulders of schools.
 * Schools need to have a healthy environment for students- Proper ventilation, building maintenance, and policies.
 * This can be assessed by:
 * Culture: Respect between and among students, staff, parents. All adult staff serve as role models/mentors. Parental involvement is encouraged. Everyone feels safe on school grounds, school events, and school-sponsored transportation.
 * Physical: Schools are clean and safe, both inside and out. School buildings and activities are accessible to all students. Schools have adequate communication systems in case of emergency situations. Students have a nice clean place to eat.
 * Services: Cafeteria/Vending machines support healthy food choices. Schools have plans to give health and safety training services (CPR, disaster preparedness.)
 * Policies: School staff is well aware of the school's health and safety policies. The School is clear on policies regarding the reporting of behavior problems and legal infractions. Students participate in the creation of school policies. There is a spirit of openness, honesty among students, staff, and administration. Policies are enforced consistently and equitably.