Student Wellness

Student wellness plays an important role in academic success, school attendance, and overall quality of life. Healthy students are better prepared to learn, participate, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Our district is committed to supporting the whole child by promoting healthy habits, positive mental health, physical activity, and lifelong wellness practices.

Physical Wellness

Physical wellness includes caring for the body through healthy habits and preventive care. Families can support physical wellness by encouraging students to:

• Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Get adequate sleep each night.
• Participate in regular physical activity.
• Stay current with recommended health screenings and immunizations.
• Practice good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing.

Nutrition

Proper nutrition provides the energy and nutrients students need to learn, grow, and stay healthy.

Healthy eating habits include:

• Eating breakfast daily.
• Choosing nutritious snacks.
• Limiting sugary drinks and excessive processed foods.
• Maintaining regular meal schedules.
• Learning healthy portion sizes.

Families seeking nutrition information may consult their healthcare provider or visit trusted resources such as the USDA's MyPlate program.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity benefits students physically, mentally, and emotionally. Children and adolescents are encouraged to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

Benefits of physical activity include:

• Improved concentration and academic performance
• Stronger muscles and bones
• Better sleep
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Increased self-confidence

Physical activity can include sports, walking, biking, dancing, playground activities, fitness programs, and other enjoyable forms of movement.

Mental and Emotional Wellness

Mental health is an important part of overall health. Students may experience stress, anxiety, sadness, or other emotional challenges throughout their development.

Families can support mental wellness by:

• Encouraging open communication.
• Helping children develop healthy coping skills.
• Establishing consistent routines.
• Promoting healthy sleep habits.
• Limiting excessive screen time.
• Seeking support when concerns arise.

Signs a child may need additional support can include:

• Significant changes in mood or behavior
• Withdrawal from friends or activities
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Difficulty concentrating
• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause

If you are concerned about your child's mental health, contact your healthcare provider, school counselor, or a qualified mental health professional.

Social Wellness

Social wellness involves building positive relationships and developing healthy communication skills.

Students benefit from:

• Positive friendships
• Respectful interactions with others
• Participation in school and community activities
• Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
• A sense of belonging and connectedness

Families can support social wellness by encouraging kindness, empathy, respect, and responsible digital citizenship.

Healthy Sleep Habits

Sleep is essential for learning, memory, growth, and emotional well-being.

Recommended sleep guidelines:

• Ages 6–12 years: 9–12 hours per night
• Ages 13–18 years: 8–10 hours per night

Helpful sleep habits include:

• Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
• Limiting screen use before bedtime
• Creating a quiet, comfortable sleep environment

Mental Health Resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, emotional distress, or concern for a loved one.

Indiana 211

• Dial 2-1-1 or visit Indiana 211 for assistance connecting with local mental health services, food assistance, healthcare, housing support, and other community resources.