Healthy Schools and Communities Case Studies
Living School
Living School was a comprehensive school health initiative, developed and supported by Ophea, that brought together the entire school community to support and enhance active, health living for children and youth. Using the school environment as a hub, Living School motivated, supported and assisted school communities in addressing the risk factors for chronic disease and obesity – physical inactivity, unhealthy eating, tobacco use and alcohol and substance abuse. Because of its comprehensive and consultative approach, the Living School framework was also able to support other issues specific to a school community’s individual needs – such as bullying, self-esteem and school safety. The Living School initiative began with a successful pilot project in 2004/2005 which involved 17 schools. By 2007/08 it expanded to include 35 schools across Ontario.
Read the Living School brochure
Read the Living School Highlight Report
Read Living School Success Stories
York Region District School Board
A Policy Based on Beliefs: York Region District School Board’s Journey toward a Healthy Schools and Workplaces Policy
When York Region District School Board (YRDSB) decided to make a change in the way the health of students and staff was addressed, they set their sights high—and they haven’t looked back since. In fact, thanks to the board’s Healthy Schools and Workplaces Policy, January 2009, all 195 schools in the board have been encouraged to embrace a comprehensive approach to health that supports academic achievement and personal well-being.
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Sharing a Vision, Building on Success: YRDSB’s Board-Wide Journey toward Healthy Schools
The York Region District School Board (YRDSB) has demonstrated exemplary leadership and excellence in bringing together all members of the community to enhance healthy active living opportunities for children and youth in York Region. Using evidence‐based, systems‐wide approaches, the board has developed strong collaborative partnerships at the local, regional and provincial levels, in order to fully utilize the strengths and assets of the broader school community. Students, school staff, parents, public health, municipal recreation departments and local businesses are sharing the responsibility to create healthy schools where students can learn, grow and reach their full potential.
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Healthy Schools Matter
A discussion paper on making healthy schools a reality in Ontario schools, prepared by Ophea, OASPHE (Ontario Association for the Supervision of Physical and Health Education) and the OHSC (Ontario Healthy Schools Coalition).
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Ophea Healthy Schools and Communities Poster Presentation
This poster, presented at the International Conference on Physical Activity and Public Health in May 2010, outlines research related to a coordinated approach to support the implementation of the Ontario Public Health Standards.
Download the poster - 8.5x11"
Download the poster - 13x19"