Healthy Schools

Healthy Schools Recognition Program

Success Stories

Here are just a few of the great ideas we heard about creating a healthier school.

Western Secondary School, Amherstburg, Ontario

The Western Secondary School started a daily "Breakfast Break" program. The goal is to provide students with a nutritious breakfast, including at least three items from healthy food groups, for only a $1. To raise money for the program the school hosted a "Silent Auction and Pasta Dinner". The school has also received remarkable support from local businesses and individuals.

Northridge Public School, London, Ontario

Students at the Northridge School formed the "Wellness Wizards" committee. This group promotes healthy living ideas with the help of a local public health nurse. For example, every week on "Wellness Wednesdays", teachers collect the names of students who made healthy food choices or who walked to school. Those students can win prizes in a monthly contest.

Cawthra Park Secondary School, Mississauga, Ontario

Staff and students at the Cawthra Park Secondary School promote physical activity through the "100 Mile Club". The goal is to run or walk 100 miles (160 km) over a 10-week period. Club members make daily physical activity a priority and everyone benefits physically, emotionally and socially. Successful participants are recognized at an awards night and receive a special "Cawthra Park 100 Mile Club" T-shirt.

Sydenham Public School, Kingston, Ontario

"Character Counts" is a bullying prevention program developed by the staff and students at the Sydenham Public School. A monthly assembly is held to focus on a positive character trait, such as respect, caring or trust. Anti-bullying information is shared on the school's main bulletin board, in morning announcements and through community newsletters. The common language and understanding that have come out of the program are showing positive results across the whole school.

Denis Morris Catholic Secondary School, St. Catharines, Ontario

Last April, staff and students at the Denis Morris Catholic Secondary School held a health fair. Topics included gambling, STDs, cholesterol testing and how to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). Several doctors attended and spoke to students about fitness, wellness, and teen health.

École Saint-Guillaume, Vars, Ontario

Saint-Guillaume was chosen as an "Active and Healthy" school by the city of Ottawa. Every month, the school promoted a specific topic on health and physical activity. The students participated in presentations, as well as in classroom and school activities. Some students were also acknowledged for their individual contribution. The names of the students who made an outstanding contribution were published in the monthly newsletter, and were written on a wall celebrating those who were "Building our School". In addition, all the students recognized during the month were invited to a special outing with the principal.