Welcome to North Carolina Healthy Schools—a dynamic initiative dedicated to creating safe, vibrant, and supportive learning environments across the state. We believe that healthy students are better learners and that a thriving school community forms the foundation for lifelong success. Our mission is to empower schools, educators, families, and communities to come together in the pursuit of comprehensive student wellness.
What We Are
North Carolina Healthy Schools is a state-wide collaborative effort designed to promote the health and well-being of students. Our initiative is built on the conviction that every child deserves access to an environment that nurtures physical, mental, and emotional growth. We work closely with schools and community partners to integrate evidence-based practices into every facet of the educational experience.North Carolina Healthy Schools focuses on eight key components:
- Comprehensive School Health Education
- School Health Services
- A Safe Physical Environment
- School Counseling, Psychological and Social Services
- Physical Education
- Nutrition Services
- School-Site Health Promotion for Staff
- Family and Community Involvement in Schools
Our Basic Principles
Our initiatives are guided by core principles that ensure the success and sustainability of every project:
- Inclusivity: Every student, regardless of background or ability, is welcomed and supported in a nurturing environment.
- Collaboration: We believe that meaningful change happens when educators, families, community leaders, and policymakers work together.
- Evidence-Based Practices: All our programs are informed by the latest scientific research and proven strategies to maximize impact.
- Empowerment: We strive to equip students, teachers, and families with the knowledge and tools needed to make healthy choices every day.
- Sustainability: Our goal is to create lasting improvements in school environments, ensuring that benefits extend well into the future.
Who It Is For
North Carolina Healthy Schools is for everyone invested in the success of our children and communities:
- Students: We create safe and stimulating environments that foster academic success and healthy development.
- Educators & School Administrators: We provide comprehensive training and resources to help schools implement effective health and wellness programs.
- Parents & Families: We empower families with the information and support needed to nurture healthy habits at home.
- Community Partners & Healthcare Providers: We welcome collaborations that enhance the health resources available to schools.
- Policy Makers: We work hand-in-hand with local and state officials to advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of our students.
What We Do
Our work spans several key areas to ensure that health and wellness are woven into the fabric of every school:
Health & Wellness Programs
- Physical Activity: We introduce programs that encourage regular exercise and active lifestyles—from organized sports and fitness challenges to daily movement breaks.
- Nutrition Education: Through workshops, school garden projects, and partnerships with local farms, we promote balanced diets and educate students about making healthy food choices.
- Mental Health Support: Our initiatives include counseling resources, mindfulness practices, and stress management programs to ensure students’ emotional well-being.
Educational Resources & Training
- For Educators: We offer professional development sessions and toolkits that help teachers incorporate health-promoting practices into classroom routines.
- For Parents & Caregivers: We provide seminars and resource guides to support families in creating healthy home environments that complement school efforts.
Policy & Advocacy
- Collaborative Advocacy: We work with local and state agencies to promote policies that ensure safe, healthy, and inclusive learning environments.
- Research-Based Practices: Our policy recommendations and programs are grounded in the latest research and best practices in student health and education.
Community Partnerships
- Local Collaboration: By partnering with healthcare providers, community organizations, and local businesses, we bring additional resources and expertise directly into schools.
- Support Networks: We build sustainable networks that foster ongoing collaboration and ensure long-term health improvements for school communities.
Environmental & Infrastructure Support
- Safe & Healthy Facilities: We assist schools in developing environments that support physical activity and healthy eating, including improvements to playgrounds, cafeteria spaces, and school gardens.
- Clean & Accessible Spaces: Ensuring that every school has access to clean facilities and safe outdoor areas is a top priority.
School Health Centers
The program supports over 140 School Health Centers (SHCs) across 28 counties, serving more than 130,000 children. These centers provide:
- Advanced practitioner services (physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners)
- Prescription medications
- Preventive services
- Emergency care
- Management of acute and chronic health problems
Telehealth Services
North Carolina Healthy Schools has embraced telehealth technology, which is particularly beneficial for rural areas. This “hub-and-spoke” model allows advanced practitioners to serve multiple schools remotely, improving access to healthcare services
Contact Information
We are eager to hear from you, whether you have questions, need support, or are interested in partnering with us. Reach out through any of the following channels:
- Organization: North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
- Address: 301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601-2825
- Mailing Address: 6301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-6301
- Phone: 984-236-2100 (main switchboard)
Specific Contacts:
- Paula Hudson Collins, Senior Advisor for Healthy Schools, NC Department of Public Instruction
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- Michael Sanderson, Senior Advisor for Healthy Schools, NC Department of Health and Human Services
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