Linking Health and Academic Success

Improving Schools, Improving School Health Education, Improving Public Health: The Role of SOPHE Members

“…So, this morning, we are going to unpack the relationship between health and education, and the connection of schools to public health education and public health overall. It is important to note that there is clear evidence that the level of an individual’s education is related to health outcomes in adulthood, and clear evidence that healthier children learn better and are more likely to be academically successful than those with health issues (Allensworth, 2015; Basch, 2011a; Bradley & Greene, 2013; Freudenberg & Ruglis, 2007; Wallen, 2015; Woolf, Johnson, Phillips, & Phillipsen, 2007).…”

“…Better educated individuals are also more likely to have better jobs that are in line with their personal aspirations and lead to higher job satisfaction (Freudenberg & Ruglis, 2007; Wallen, 2015; Woolf et al, 2007). These better jobs are more likely to offer benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans.…”

“…An invitational environment for all parents and community members (Hodges & Angermeier, 2015; Slade, 2015; Wallen, 2015)…”

“…One, "Giving Everyone the Health of the Educated: An Examination of Whether Social Change Would Save More Lives Than Medical Advances," was authored by Woolf et al and Various reasons have been presented for this relationship. Higher income has been presented as one outcome of education that leads to better health (Allensworth, Lewallen, Stevenson, & Katz, 2011;Freudenberg & Ruglis, 2007;Wallen, 2015;Woolf et al, 2007). It is posited that higher income leads to better health outcomes for adults because they are more likely to live in healthier neighborhoods; have better personal transportation; and have easier access to healthier foods, physical activity, and medical care.…”

“…Stress, physical and emotional abuse, hunger, safety concerns, and chronic illness often lead to academic challenges for school-age children and youth. In addition, students’ perception of a lack of feeling welcomed, supported, valued, connected, and engaged can have a negative impact on achievement (Allensworth et al, 2011; Basch, 2011a; Freudenberg & Ruglis, 2007; Wallen, 2015). In a 2011 issue of the Journal of School Health focused on health and learning, Basch presented the impact of conditions such as vision problems, asthma, teen pregnancy, aggression and violence, and lack of breakfast on the achievement of urban minority youth.…”