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School Years Program

School Years Program

School Years Program Resources

Head Lice in Schools: thumbnail
Head Lice in Schools
Learn about identifying and dealing with head lice.
Health Topics for Schools: thumbnail
Health Topics for Schools
Learn about resources and supports to build a healthy school.
Healthy Schools: thumbnail
Healthy Schools
Learn about the benefits of the Healthy School Approach in Halton Region.
Medical Conditions in School: thumbnail
Medical Conditions in School
Learn about addressing medical conditions in schools.
Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS): thumbnail
Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS)
An elementary school student leadership program.
Printable Handouts: thumbnail
Printable Handouts

School Years Program Services

The School Years Program supports the health and development of children and youth through collaboration with schools and community organizations. Public health nurses (PHNs) and a dietitian provide school staff evidence-based support on a variety of health topics, with a focus on mental health, substance use prevention (including vaping), and healthy eating habits.

The role of the public health nurse:

Support Healthy School Approach:

PHNs deliver comprehensive health promotion programs and initiatives that benefit both students and staff. They also provide professional development for staff, students, and parents.

Consult with School Staff:

PHNs offer personalized consultation, support, and resources to teachers and school staff to address health-related topics and implement effective strategies.

Collaborate on Policies and Programs:

PHNs work closely with health professionals, educators, and community leaders to develop policies and programs that promote positive health behaviours and support the well-being of the school community.

Provide Health Communications:

PHNs develop and deliver tailored health communications, including an electronic newsletter, to provide clear, accessible information and encourage healthier behaviors across the school community.

The role of the public health dietitian:

The public health dietitian provides expert guidance on healthy eating and nutrition education, collaborating with school boards and educators to create a supportive food environment. Services include consultation, curriculum support, and professional development focused on food literacy, healthy policies, and positive relationships with food and bodies. They also collaborate with community organizations such as the Ontario Dietitians in Public Health (ODPH) and Halton Food for Thought (HFFT), to ensure consistent, evidence-informed nutrition messaging and programming to school communities.

There are several different Halton Region public health programs that support schools in Halton. For more information, visit the Immunization, Oral Health and Diseases and Infections pages.

To connect directly with a PHN or dietitian, please contact the School Years Program at schoolhealth@halton.ca or call 311

Public Health Update for Schools

This digital newsletter for schools contains information, updates and resources from Halton Region Public Health on a variety of program areas.

View all editions (external link)

Sign-up to receive the Public Health Update for Schools digital newsletter

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