Given several exciting new provincial policy and program directives such as the Foundations for a Healthy School framework, the Healthy Schools Recognition Award, the new Ontario Public Health Standards, the after-school strategy, and the Healthy Communities fund, Ophea has made the decision to discontinue the Active Schools program as of the 2009/2010 school year, to better align Ophea’s activities with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health Promotion priorities, and better serve educators and schools, as well as health promoters from public health and sport and recreation throughout Ontario.
Specifically, some key objectives for the renewed Active Schools initiative will be:
- To enhance awareness and understanding of the concept and benefits of community partnerships as part of “healthy schools” approaches in the context of a healthy community to increase and enhance access to healthy active living opportunities for all.
- Work with partners and stakeholders from the public health and the sport and recreation sectors to ensure effective and coordinated approach to communication and physical activity/health promotion in schools
- Provide opportunities to recognize communities for their progress and achievements related to healthy schools and communities.
To support you in building your Healthy School and Community, Ophea has a number of available resources. To find out more about these supports visit: http://www.ophea.net/activeschools.cfm