Press & Media
School Health Advisory Councils (SHAC)
Welcome to the world of School Health Advisory Councils (SHAC)!
Every school district is required to have a School Health Advisory Council (SHAC). We provide online workshops and best practices to help create, enhance and provide on-going support to SHACs throughout Texas.
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Previously Recorded Workshops
SHAC 101 & The Texas SHAC Network
During this SHAC workshop, we reviewed the basic concepts of a SHAC, we identified and learned how to apply resources to improve engagement, and we built social connections through networking.
We were also joined by Michelle Smith with Action for Healthy Kids and Alice Kirk with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension who presented and shared their expertise on SHAC guidelines, member recruiting, and available SHAC resources.
Click here to watch a video recording of this workshop.
Advocating for School Health Policy through your SHAC
During this workshop, we learned about bills related to school health that are in the current Texas legislative session. We connected with fellow SHAC leaders and session participants across the state as we review these health bills and identify how they may impact school health statewide. Finally, we were introduced to new strategies to best advocate for school health policy through SHAC activities.
Click here to watch a video recording of this workshop.
Strengthening School Health Policy: Empowering SHACs to Collaborate with School Boards
During this virtual workshop, we delve into the crucial collaboration between SHACs and school boards regarding school health policy. Our esteemed panel, including representatives from the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) and the Brownsville ISD SHAC, share insights, best practices, and diverse perspectives on navigating dynamics between school boards and SHACs to prioritize evidence-based health policies and initiatives.
Click here to watch a video recording of this workshop.
Leveraging Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Resources for School Health and SHAC Development
During this workshop, we heard from insightful speakers from the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Texas School Health Program team. The workshop aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of important entities like DSHS and the Texas School Health Advisory Committee (TSHAC).
The speakers from the DSHS Texas School Health Program team shared information on the functions and goals of their program and offered valuable insights into how they collaborate with SHACs and support school health initiatives across Texas. Attendees had the opportunity to learn directly from experts who provided guidance for promoting health and wellness in educational settings.
During this, the DSHS team also explored the assessment of SHAC effectiveness using the TSHAC Self-Assessment tool and shared essential resources and research available to SHACs and school personnel, enabling attendees to leverage these tools effectively in improving school health outcomes.
Click here to watch a video recording of this workshop.
Partnering for Success: Strategies for Effective Parent Engagement
During this workshop, we discussed practical strategies to effectively engage parents in SHAC activities. Participants learned how to create an inclusive atmosphere, communicate the importance of parent involvement, and develop outreach strategies. The session addressed common barriers to parent engagement and provided tools to empower parents to contribute meaningfully to SHAC goals. By the end of the workshop, attendees were equipped to foster stronger collaborations and healthier school communities.
Click here to watch a video recording of this workshop.
Stay Connected
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