FAQ

What is a School Health Advisory Council?
Every independent school district is required by law to have a school health advisory council (SHAC). The majority of SHAC members must be parents who are not employed by the school district and, as a group, serve as an accurate representation of the school district. Title 2, Chapter 28, Section 28.004 of the Texas Education Code. Although SHAC is primarily made up of district parents, other members of the community that serve on SHAC include community stakeholders, physicians, school nurses, clergy, teachers, district administrators, and district staff.

SHAC members are appointed by the School Board of Trustees to serve at the district level to provide advice to the school district on coordinated school health programming and its impact on student health and learning. Specific duties of SHAC include but are not limited to recommending appropriate health education curriculum designed to prevent cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes; instruction to prevent tobacco use; and appropriate grade levels and curriculum for human sexuality and abstinence education (HSAE). By law, we are required that:

  1. All school districts must have a SHAC
  2. Elementary schools must provide 135 minutes a week of TEKS based structured physical activity.
  3. By July 2006 school districts must have a Wellness Policy (FFA Local FFA Legal)
  4. By September 2007, elementary schools must implement a coordinated school health curriculum.

How can I help at home?
Children need to learn and practice healthy habits at home. Family and community involvement are critical elements in this process. The Tuloso Midway ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) are committed to working together in a culturally sensitive manner with children, families and schools to help everyone develop health and safety habits.

How can I help at school?
Work with your principal, teachers, PE, food service, nurse, counselor, parents and the community to assist with communication of district health and wellness policy. Provide health and wellness information to parents, campus and community. Join a district SHAC health committee or a campus wellness committee.

What is a Coordinated School Health Program (CSHP)?
Coordinated School Health Program (CSHP) is an integrated, systematic set of planned, sequential, school-affiliated strategies, activities and services designed to advance student academic performance and promote their optimal physical, emotional, social and educational development. It is coordinated by a multidisciplinary team that is accountable to the community for program quality and effectiveness. By addressing health-related issues, schools not only foster student's academic achievements, but also help to establish healthy behaviors that last a lifetime.