The Arkansas School Health Services Initiative is an interagency collaboration between the Division of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE) and the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). This state-level infrastructure provides support to Arkansas schools in the implementation of health and wellness activities that create a safe and healthy school environment that supports learning. The purpose of the Division of Elementary & Secondary Education Office of School Health Services is to contribute to the goals of the education system by providing assistance to schools to meet the health and safety needs of students.

The School Health Services Office focuses on providing professional development, technical assistance, training, and resources to aid schools in meeting school health legislative mandates and implementing heathy school practices in areas including: health education, physical education, conducting the School Health Index Assessment, development and implementation of district wellness policies and committees, developing a school improvement wellness strategy, school-based health care services, and mental health services.

Office of School Health Services Mission and Vision

Mission: To improve children’s health and academic success by advancing school health services through leadership and collaboration. 

Vision: To ensure all Arkansas children are safe, healthy and ready to learn.

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