Seven local schools recognized for health and well-being programs

Seven Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) schools have been recognized by the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association (OPHEA) for their efforts to promote health and well-being programming for students, staff and the school community.

As part of the Healthy School Certification, each school partnered with Southwestern Public Health to plan and implement initiatives guided by public health principles, from student-led wellness clubs and food literacy, to mental health and anti-bullying programs.

“Schools and public health have a shared vision of creating opportunities where students thrive,” says Erica Arnett, Manager of Healthy Schools at Southwestern Public Health. “Research is clear that these initiatives provide youth with positive experiences and lifelong health and well-being benefits.”  

Recognized TVDSB schools in Elgin County and Oxford County for 2025 include:

·       Gold Certified: Arthur Voaden Secondary School for Wellness Day events, and a daily student nutrition program

·       Gold Certified: Eastdale Public School for its after-school cooking program, Wellness Club, and mental health initiatives

·       Silver Certified: Elgin Court Public School for launching an inclusive recess program with a focus on belonging

·       Silver Certified: Locke’s Public School for establishing a dedicated space for students to self-regulate and engage in positive activity

·       Gold Certified: Oliver Stephens Public School for a student leadership recess initiative, and a focused Mental Health Week

·       Gold Certified: Summers’ Corners Public School for respect initiatives and school-wide family engagement events

·       Gold Certified: Winchester Street Public School for its sensory-mindfulness room, food literacy program, and anti-bullying week focus

“Congratulations to our students.  Learning about good health and how to take care of your body and mind are crucial skills that will last a lifetime,” said Bill Tucker, Director of Education at TVDSB. “Thank you to Southwestern Public Health and to OPHEA for making this recognition possible.”

How do schools get involved in Healthy Schools?

To enrol in the Healthy Schools Program through OPHEA, schools sign up online and implement a four-step program, which sees them develop a plan and set goals that works best for their school.

Some goals could include:

• Develop a sense of belonging
• Strengthen the school community
• Promote student learning through improvements in student health and well-being
• Establish healthy, safe and inclusive learning environments

For more information or to register, visit: https://healthyschools.ca/.