Maine CSHP Awards ...rkm

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2006 Excellence in Coordinated School Health Recognition Awards Program Winner
Health Education

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MSAD 43

Comprehensive school health education is a core value in SAD 43. The buy-in is such that health education for all students is a priority. Administrative and school board support is evident in their actions taken to support the health education curriculum.

Professional development is offered on Reflective Practice Days. These days offer opportunities to work on health education instruction and assessment as well as program evaluation.

School health policies have been developed to support a seamless health education program. Health education is on the standards-based report card and the implementations of common local assessments successfully monitor student achievement. In addition to the required one semester of health education for all ninth-graders, the high school offers students a number of health education electives.

The health of the students is a high level of concern for this school system and community. There are solid connections made to educate and communicate to parents. School staff frequently present to the Parent Teacher Organizations about the existing health programs for students. Hannaford Supermarket is an excellent example of community support by encouraging the public not to use food as a reward.

Student health data is reviewed on a yearly basis including data gathered through the Healthy Maine Partnerships. Impressive community support is garnered by including parents in the data review and analysis process.

In SAD 43 the coordination of guidance counselors, school nurses, physical educators, health educators, and the staff wellness and food service programs creates a synergy and proactive approach to student health.

Congratulations to SAD 43 for receiving the 2006 Exemplary Award in Health Education.

Ryan Casey
Assistant Principal

Prior to accepting the position of Assistant Principal of Mountain Valley Middle School this year, Ryan served as the health education teacher at Mountain Valley High School for 5 years. It was during those years that Ryan made his greatest contributions to the development of a top notch health program at the high school, while working closely with K-8 teachers to insure that health education and the Learning Results were covered in the elementary and middle school programs. He continues to be a strong advocate for health education.

Jim Hodgkin
Superintendent

During his three years as Superintendent of Schools for MSAD 43, Jim has shown his commitment to quality health education. He maintained present staffing levels during tough budget times. He keeps the School Board apprised about health issues by giving regular reports to the board. His on-going support is very much appreciated by the entire health education staff.

Kathy Sutton
School Health Coordinator

It is very difficult to summarize all of Kathy’s contributions in the area of Health Education. Prior to becoming the School Health Coordinator for MSAD 43 in 1999, Kathy served as a health education teacher and school nurse for 16 years. Kathy has been the key promoter of health education in MSAD 43. She is tireless in her efforts to promote healthy life choices for students and staff. Kathy serves on the Advisory Team for the Superintendent and coordinates the health and physical education teachers in the district. Last, but not least, Kathy leads the SAD 43 Wellness Team, which has been very active for 13 years under her guidance.