CSH Definitions:

• Prevention is the active, assertive process of creating conditions that promote well being.
• Health is the physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual well being of an individual and not just the absence of disease.
• CSH Infrastructure is the basic system upon which a coordinated school health program depends to continue and grow.

How does Coordinated School Health help?

• reduce absenteeism and classroom behavior problems
• improve classroom performance
• better prepare students to be productive members of their communities

When policy makers use a Coordinated School Health approach in decision-making, and place prevention and early intervention as primary strategies to improve the health and education of Hawai'i children and youth...THEN the local school community can more effectively address the physical, social and emotional developmental needs of their children as learners, increase assets in the lives of children and address the health and education gap created by poverty...SO THAT all children and youth have equal access to quality school program, succeed in school and improve academic performance, reduce common threats to their health and increase aspirations.

The Eight Components of a Coordinated School Health

• Comprehensive School Health Education: Kindergarten through high school health education curriculum that is sequential, developmentally appropriate and includes instruction and assessment.

• Physical Education & Physical Activity: Physical education classes that promote physical fitness, motor skills, social and personal interaction and life-long physical activity.

• Family/Community Involvement: Encourage the participation of parents and youth in policy development and school involvement. This includes the integration of community providers with schools.

• Staff Health Promotion: Work-site health promotion programs that encourage and support staff in pursuing healthy behaviors and lifestyles.