School Health Index

What is a School Health Index (SHI)?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) School Health Index (SHI)
The School Health Index (SHI) Self-Assessment and Planning Guide is an online self-evaluation and planning tool for schools. The SHI is built on CDC’s research-based guidelines for school health programs that identify the policies and practices most likely to be effective in reducing youth health risk behaviors. The SHI is easy to use and is completely confidential.

CDC developed the SHI in partnership with school administrators and staff, school health experts, parents, and national nongovernmental health and education agencies to:

  • Enable schools to identify strengths and weaknesses of health and safety policies and programs.

  • Enable schools to develop an action plan for improving student health that can be incorporated into the School Improvement Plan.

  • Engage teachers, parents, students, and the community in promoting health-enhancing behaviors and better health.

The SHI (and related materials) is available as an interactive, customizable online tool or downloadable, printable version. The SHI aligns with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model.

Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK) Shortened SHI
Action for Healthy Kids has developed and hosts a modified version of the School Health Index. This version includes key questions on various school health topics from the CDC’s School Health Index to provide your school with a shorter, easy-to-complete assessment. AFHK’s newly expanded SHI addresses health topic areas consistent with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model and puts a greater emphasis on Whole Child heath by adding in Social and Emotional Climate questions, as well as increasing the focus of how families play a key role in improving childhood health behaviors and development. Read More >>

Wellness Policies
A local school wellness policy is a written document that guides a local educational agency (LEA) or school district’s efforts to create supportive school nutrition and physical activity environments.
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