Outcome Area Page

Summary

The Improved Health and Wellness Outcome Area considers the integrated effect of the buildings, policies, and programs on the health and well being of students, staff, and the community. Like the prior outcome area, these best practices can be seen in a "systems view" that recognizes the many contributors to health and well being. Best Practices for water, air, and chemical safety help prevent harm. Best Practices for Indoor Environmental Comfort, Physical Activity, Nourishment, Nutrition, and Sustainable Food go beyond safety to support and enhance student, staff, and community health. Best Practice "2.9 Health Resources and Planning" puts it all together in an inclusive and coordinated way. There are opportunities throughout this outcome area to integrate projects with best practices from other outcome areas that reduce environmental impact and cost and provide environmental and sustainability education. 

Improved Health and Wellness Best Practices:

Click on each Best Practice to learn more, including Best Practice Actions. [Un-linked Best Practices are under development.]

2.1 Drinking Water Safety: District/School monitors drinking water quality and prevents water contaminants.

2.2 Indoor and Outdoor Air Quality: District/School has programs to protect air quality such as using a strong ventilation standard, a comprehensive Indoor Air Quality Management Program, an asthma management program, and a no-smoking policy.

2.3 Indoor Environmental Comfort: School provides comfortable learning spaces in terms of natural and artificial lighting, temperature, humidity, acoustics (sound quality), window views to nature, furniture and equipment.

2.4 Chemical Safety: School minimizes and manages chemical exposure and handling to protect students and staff from wood preservatives, mercury in devices, pesticides, and other potential hazards.

2.5 Physical Activity: Students have ample physical education or outdoor time during each school day.

2.6 Nourishment Access: District/School provides breakfast and free or reduced lunches as needed to make sure all students are nourished.

2.7 Nutrition: District/School provides nutritious and healthy meals and snacks.

2.8 Sustainable Food: District/School purchases food with green features such as organic, fair trade, or locally grown.

2.9. Health Resources and Planning: District/School has health resources (e.g. a nurse or health aid) and has an overall health plan that includes mental health, positive school climate, inclusivity, equity, and safety.