What is a School Wellness Committee (SWC)?
A school wellness committee is essentially an advisory group concerned with the health and wellbeing of students and staff. A committee can be formed at the district or school building level. This group typically has 6-12 members and includes school staff, students, family members, and community members.
Why do we need a school wellness committee?
The school wellness committee provides a way to inform teachers, staff, students and families about the work the school is doing to improve the health and academic success of its students. The school wellness committee is also a way to ensure that district level wellness policies are implemented at the building level. In addition, these committees represent the unique perspective of the community in a school building. This enables the health priorities and activities put in place to truly reflect the needs and interests of that school.
MGL 111 Section 223 105 CMR 215
What do school wellness committees do?
School wellness committees typically assess the school health environment, programs and policies in place and identify ways to strengthen these to improve the health of students and staff. Usually committees will develop and implement an action plan based on what they learn about the school. They also provide advice and expertise to administrators in the building and provide feedback to the district regarding implementation of health-related wellness policies and programs and report on the content and implementation to the public (including parents, students and the community members).
Ref. Healthier Generation Toolkit
Uxbridge Wellness Advisory Committee:
At the center of a thriving school is a healthy, resilient and successful learner. A comprehensive school wellness program will improve the safety and health of all school community members and support the academic achievement of students. The Uxbridge Public Schools will strive to make a significant contribution to the general well-being, nutritional status, social-emotional development, physical capacity, and learning ability of each student. The School Wellness Advisory Committee will work to support the district’s efforts to promote the well-being of students, staff, and community members.
