Parent and Community Involvement

It is important that parents and representatives of community health interest groups have opportunities to be informed of the school's contribution to tohe total health education of the student, and to be invited to become involved as appropriate and administratively feasible. The school will gain by having a well informed community so that mutual goals and objectives for the students are enhanced.

It is suggested that:

• The school provide opportunities to share program plans with parents and representatives of community health interest groups;
• Curriculum guides and materials be made available for consultation;
• Parents be informed of any major changes planned in the program and be given an opportunity to discuss the changes;
• Parents and interested citizens be asked to serve as volunteers for special events, and as resource persons to the class, when skills they have would enhance the program;
• Parents and community health interest groups be invited to become involved through representation on the Local Liaison Committee

The health education program in the classroom needs the support of total school involvement in order to be effective. The school can provide such support in two ways: by providing support services to the students and by promoting a healthy school environment.

Services such as early problem identification, child protection, referrals, peer support and staff wellness should be available, in order to reinforce prevention efforts and to facilitate intervention to students at risk or in crisis.

The social and physical environment of the school should preserve and enhance the well-being of both students and staff. In an effort to promote a healthy school environment, consideration might be given to issues related to safety procedures and regulations within the school and on the playground, healthy food services and programs, environmental health standards and conflict resolution programs. Promoting respect for individuals and for the environment, as well as striving for an environment free of discrimination and harassment should also be part of efforts to promote a healthy school climate.