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School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)

What is the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)?

The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) is a district advisory group made up of school staff, parents, health professionals, and community partners. The council works together to provide guidance and recommendations to Brunswick County Schools on school health programs and initiatives.

The purpose of SHAC is to support the physical, mental, and social well-being of students so they can succeed academically and in life.

“Schools could do more than perhaps any other single institution in society to help young people, and the adults they will become, to live healthier, longer, more satisfying, and more productive lives.”
— Carnegie Council on Adolescent Development

Mission of SHAC

The mission of the Brunswick County Schools SHAC is to promote policies, programs, and practices that support the whole child by improving student health, wellness, and academic success through collaboration between schools, families, and the community.

Why SHAC Matters

Student health and academic achievement are closely connected. When students are healthy, they are better able to:

  • Attend school regularly

  • Focus in class

  • Manage stress and emotions

  • Build positive relationships

  • Reach their full learning potential

Schools cannot address student health needs alone. SHAC provides a structure for:

  • Community involvement

  • Coordinated planning

  • Shared responsibility

  • Clear communication between schools, families, and community partners

Areas of Focus (WSCC Model)

The SHAC represents the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model, which includes eight key components:

  • Health Education

  • Physical Education and Physical Activity

  • Nutrition Services

  • Mental and Social Health

  • Family and Community Engagement

  • Staff Wellness

  • School Environment

  • Health Services

These areas work together to support students’ overall well-being.

Responsibilities of the SHAC

The Brunswick County Schools SHAC:

  • Advises the district on school health policies and programs

  • Reviews health-related initiatives and resources

  • Identifies student and school health needs

  • Promotes collaboration between schools and community agencies

  • Serves as a communication link between families, schools, and the community

  • Supports wellness initiatives for both students and staff

Membership

SHAC members are appointed by Brunswick County Schools and represent a broad range of perspectives, including:

  • School administrators and teachers

  • School nurses and counselors

  • Parents and guardians

  • Community health professionals

  • Mental health providers

  • Nutrition and wellness partners

  • Local agencies and organizations

This diverse membership ensures that decisions are informed by multiple viewpoints and areas of expertise.

Meeting Information

The SHAC meets regularly throughout the school year to discuss student wellness initiatives and provide recommendations to the district.

Meeting Schedule: Quarterly

Location: Virtual

How the Community Can Be Involved

Community members can support SHAC by:

  • Request to attend meetings

  • Sharing ideas and concerns related to student health

  • Partnering with schools on wellness programs

  • Serving on the council when positions are available

Resources

Contact Information

For more information about the Brunswick County Schools SHAC:

District SHAC Lead:

 

 

 

Jonathan Paschal
Assistant Superintendent
Brunswick County Schools
jpaschal@bcswan.net