Priorities
Healthy schools are dependent on several factors. Two of the most important sit at the intersection of health and education: supporting educator well-being and preventing chronic student absence.
Research shows that the physical, mental, and emotional health of school employees has been linked to stability in schools, teaching effectiveness, and student achievement.
Similarly, positive health, economic, and educational outcomes are linked to student attendance. In fact, school attendance is a significant predictor of high school graduation, which is considered a key driver of success. Unfortunately, physical health challenges like asthma or unmet oral health are some of the leading causes of health-related school absence.
Teacher and staff well-being
Supporting the mental health and resilience of teachers and staff is critical for creating a positive school climate and retaining quality educators.
Attendance as a Vital Sign
Unaddressed rates of chronic absence have serious implications on long-term population health, academic outcomes, and school budgets.