The overriding goal of the Health Education Program is to have our students become knowledgeable about what constitutes physical, psychological and social wellness. We believe that the practice of healthful living will affect students in all areas of learning. Therefore, it is our desire to empower young people with the skills and positive attitudes they need to make informed decisions to promote their own lifelong health and wellbeing. This philosophy applies to the four major topics of our comprehensive Health Education Program including:
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Mental and Illnesses: Prevention and Treatment |
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Substance Abuse Prevention (including tobacco, alcohol and other drugs) |
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Human Sexuality |
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Physical Diseases and Disorders: Prevention and Treatment |
We recognize the diversity of values, which exist in our pluralistic society, and understand and respect that our students will interpret the information we present in the context of the perceptions and experiences that they bring with them. We strive to create an atmosphere where an appreciation of their similarities and differences - based on race, ethnicity, culture, religion, economic status, gender and sexual orientation - can help students see the value of various points of view.
The Joint Committee on National Health Education Standards has established that "health literate individuals...are critical thinkers and problem solvers, responsible and productive citizens, self directed learners, and effective communicators...
To that end students will:
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comprehend concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention |
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demonstrate the ability to practice health enhancing behaviors and reduce health risks |
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analyze the influence of culture, media, technology, and other factors on health |
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demonstrate the ability to use interpersonal communication skills to enhance health |
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demonstrate the ability to use goal-setting and decision-making skills to enhance health |
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demonstrate the ability to advocate for personal, family and community health," |
Wherever and whenever possible, in order to accommodate the individual learning styles, strengths and weaknesses, we endeavor to use a variety of educational experiences and materials that meet the needs of all of our students.
The educational materials come from a variety of sources. We attempt to select our materials from the best - from agencies and organizations that take a proactive and educational position with regard to Health Education in schools. We do not endorse any particular agency, organization or business enterprise. Students are encouraged to look at all educational materials with a critical eye.
Evaluating the success of a Health Education program is a difficult task. In addition to mastering information, it is our goal to assist students in the development of health enhancing lifestyles reflecting positive attitudes and behaviors. These outcomes are difficult to measure and often are not acted on until later in the students' life.
