Academic Achievement and Health

Do Healthy Kids Really Learn Better?

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Key Findings of the Report

• Health and education are linked

• Every health risk can affect academic success

• Interventions can narrow disparities

• Health interventions can improve learning and health

Research Review: School-based Health Interventions and Academic Achievement

Some Surprising Health Risks

• Drinking 2 or more soda pops per day

• Fewer than 8 hours of sleep at night

• Not eating breakfast

• Feeling unsafe at school

• Feeling depressed

Healthy Students Learn Better

Every Health Risk Makes a Difference

Race/Ethnicity and Achievement

Socioeconomic Status and Achievement

Key Areas of Health Interventions

Comprehensive Programs Are Better

Relationship of Resources and Reach

Fewer resources More resources

Universal reach Selective reach

Effective School-based Interventions

• Handwashing

• Cognitive/social skills

• Parent/teacher communication skills

• Increased physical activity

• School breakfast programs

• Chronic disease management

• School-based health centers

Coordinated School Health Approach

• Family and community involvement

• Healthy school environment

• Health education

• Physical education

• Staff wellness

• Nutrition services

• Health services

• Counseling, psychological and social services

Key Ingredients for Success

• Convene a school health advisory committee and designate school coordinators

• Conduct an assessment and review data

• Develop and implement a plan

• Evaluate results and continuously improve

• Create policies that support school health

• Identify sufficient resources to succeed

Schools Can Improve Health

• Health is important for achievement

• Low-income students and students of color may benefit most

• Research shows interventions can affect health and academics

• The Coordinated School Health approach ties with school improvement goals

Learn more at www.HealthySchoolsWA.org

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