The SMDHU Healthy Schools Program

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is working to support schools in Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka. Called "Healthy Schools", this evidence-based approach brings school administrators, teachers, students, parents and community partners together to promote health and wellness and prevent injury and illness within the school community.

Sometimes referred to as comprehensive school health (CSH), schools using this approach strive to:

• foster health and learning.
• engage the whole school community to identify and address issues together.
• use a variety of approaches to create a healthier school environment.
• implement policies and procedures that promote health and wellness and build on successes.

“Healthy Schools” are selected jointly by their school board and the health unit and will receive dedicated PHN support to work through the process of identifying key issues, and planning and implementing activities to address these issues. If your school is interested in becoming a designated “Healthy School”, it is important that your school administration speak with their superintendent regarding participation.

For more information on Healthy Schools and Comprehensive School Health in Simcoe Musokoka, click on the following links:

• Healthy Schools: A Guide for School Administrators (Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit). This user-friendly, downloadable guide outlines what your school can expect by working with us as a "healthy school."
• Healthy Schools Fact Sheet (Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit). Downloadable fact sheet outlining the steps involved in the healthy schools process.
• Sample Surveys The following are samples of surveys that participating schools may use to help them determine the issues they would like to work on as part of their Healthy School Initiative. Actual surveys are provided through the school.

If you are not currently interested in becoming a Healthy School, but would appreciate SMDHU support, the Healthy Schools PHNs also offer Outreach Support to schools within designated geographic areas. Click here to find out more about SMDHU School Outreach support.