Seven Thames Valley District School Board schools have earned provincial recognition for their health and wellness programming — with four of them located in Elgin County.
The Ontario Physical and Health Education Association (OPHEA) awarded Healthy Schools Certification to Arthur Voaden Secondary School, Elgin Court Public School, Locke’s Public School and Summers’ Corners Public School for programs ranging from nutrition programs to inclusive recess activities and family engagement events.
- Arthur Voaden Secondary School for Wellness Day events, and a daily student nutrition program.
- Elgin Court Public School for launching an inclusive recess program with a focus on belonging.
- Locke’s Public School for establishing a dedicated space for students to self-regulate and engage in positive activity.
- Summers’ Corners Public School for respect initiatives and school-wide family engagement events.
The schools partnered with Southwestern Public Health to implement these student-focused initiatives, promoting mental health, food literacy, and positive school culture.
“Research is clear that these initiatives provide youth with positive experiences and lifelong health and well-being benefits,” said Erica Arnett, Manager of Healthy Schools at Southwestern Public Health.
Three Oxford County schools — Eastdale Public School, Oliver Stephens Public School, and Winchester Street Public School — were also recognized.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
