The Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) prioritizes health and well-being within our school communities. Schools throughout the board demonstrate their commitment to health and well-being through participation in the Ophea Healthy Schools certification program. Through a point-based system, schools plan their Healthy Schools process over the course of the school year and apply for gold, silver, or bronze certification.
During the 2023-24 school year, SCDSB schools undertook programs, initiatives, and activities focused on prioritizing and learning about the emotional, mental, and physical health of students and staff. In total, 103 SCDSB schools achieved Ophea Healthy Schools certification, with 84 gold, 16 silver, two bronze, and one certification. To see a full list of the 2023-24 certification results, visit healthyschools.ca.
As we begin the 2024-25 school year, SCDSB schools will continue their focus on health and well-being and work to maintain and/or improve their Healthy Schools certification level. To learn more about Ophea Healthy Schools in the SCDSB, watch this video highlighting the 2022-23 Ophea Healthy Schools achievements.
The Healthy Schools certification program recognizes and celebrates school communities for establishing healthy, safe, and inclusive learning environments where all students can reach their full potential, all while supporting school board and provincial level policies. Participating schools complete the four-step Healthy Schools Process, which is inspired by the Canadian Healthy School Standards and Canada's Comprehensive School Health Framework.
This initiative links directly to the SCDSB Strategic Priorities in the areas of Well-being and Community.