Recorded presentation

Dana S. Carr, MPH, Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools, Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave SW, FB-6, Washington, DC 20202, 202-260-0823, dana.carr@ed.gov

Public health researchers and professionals have long understood the impact of health status on a child’s ability to learn. Although school health efforts remain primarily the Department of Health and Human Services’ responsibility, the US Department of Education has historically targeted resources on prevention programs focusing on a range of risky behaviors, such as violence and drug use, through the Office Safe and Drug-Free Schools Program (OSDFS). An on-site public health professional, provided through a Letter of Agreement between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Adolescent and School Health and the Department of Education, has enhanced the Department’s ability to address a broader range of health issues, such as infectious diseases and bioterrorism. In 2003, OSDFS hired a full-time staff member to work exclusively on a range of health issues, including mental health, environmental health, and physical education. Together, these staff members provide health information to state and local education agencies and schools and collaborate closely with the public health community to provide an education perspective. During this session, the presenters will lead a discussion about how health issues and academic achievement interact in schools today. They will also update participants on their activities, important collaborations and partnerships, plans for future endeavors, and relevant OSDFS initiatives, such as the Carol M. White Physical Education for Progress (PEP) grant program. Finally, the speakers will update participants on emerging challenges to health in schools.

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