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HEALTHY SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

GOAL

Advocate for effective programs that create an environment where students can learn and staff are empowered

“A safe, clean, and well-maintained school with a positive psychosocial climate and culture an boost student and staff self-esteem and health as well as students’ educational achievement,” (Health is Academic: A Guide to Coordinated School Health Programs, 1998).

The physical and aesthetic surroundings and the psychosocial climate and culture of the school can affect student and staff self-esteem and health as well as students’ academic achievement. Factors that influence the physical environment include the school building and the area surrounding it, any biological or chemical agents that are detrimental to health, and physical conditions such as temperature, noise, and lighting. The psychological environment includes the physical, emotional, and social conditions that affect the well-being of students and staff.

A healthy school environment supports learning and contributes to students’ health by minimizing distractions that either threatens their mental or physical wellbeing. The environment should also promote expectations that all students can succeed. Policies and programs to meet the needs of students and staffmust support these environments.

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