HEALTH EDUCATION

The School Committee believes that the greatest opportunity for effective health education lies within the public schools because of their potential to reach children at the age when positive, lifelong health habits are best engendered and because the schools are equipped to provide qualified personnel to conduct health education programs.

The School Committee is committed to a sound, comprehensive, research-based health education program as an integral part of each student's general education. The health education program will include knowledge and skill development to address the following topics appropriate to the students’ grade or developmental level: alcohol, tobacco, and other substance abuse; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; child abuse; family life and sexuality; HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome); human growth and development; mental health; nutrition; physiology and hygiene; physical activity; prevention and control of disease; and safety and injury prevention including suicide and teen dating violence prevention.

In order to promote a relevant, dynamic approach to the instruction of health education, the School Committee will continue to stress the need for adequate curricular, personnel, and financial commitments.

SOURCE: MASC April 2019

LEGAL REF.: R.I. Gen. Laws §16-21-7; 16-22-3; 16-22-4; 16-22-1

ADOPTED: March 15, 2021