School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)

Many studies show that a healthy active child is more likely to be successful in school and have healthy habits their entire life (CDC, 2011; Basch, 2011). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2011) states, “six types of health risk behaviors contribute to the leading causes of death, disability and social problems in the United States: (1) tobacco use; (2) unhealthy eating; (3) inadequate physical activity; (4) alcohol and other drug use; (5) sexual behaviors that may result in HIV infection, other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancy; and (6) violence.”

These six health behaviors have a direct impact on student academics and attendance and schools are an important place to increase understanding, form attitudes and develop skills that affect lifelong healthy behaviors. Additional research shows that schools can deal with the health needs of students and still meet performance goals and lessen financial costs (Action for Healthy Kids, 2013).

While schools are an important place to make a difference in the long-term health risks of its students, they cannot deal with these complex problems on their own. Schools, parents and community members can join forces to support the knowledge and skills young people need to be healthy. One way for everyone to come together is through the local school health advisory council (SHAC). Local SHACs provide a way to get involved with school health-related issues.

Texas law (Texas Education Code, Section 28.004) requires the establishment of a SHAC for every school district. A SHAC is a school district created advisory group, consisting of members from different areas of the community and school district. The job of the SHAC is to make sure that the school district’s school health programs reflect local community values. 

The Central Heights ISD School Health Advisory Council is seeking new members!

The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) assists the district in ensuring that local community values are reflected in the health education program. The council will address the continued implementation of a coordinate health program including health education, physical education, health services, nutrition services, counseling, healthy school environment, staff health promotion and family/community involvement. The SHAC meets at least 4 times during the school year.

If you are interested in serving on the SHAC, please complete the application found here and email it to:

Tonya Turnage
Director of Special Programs & Compliance
tonya.turnage@centralhts.net
936-552-3403 (office)

Schedule of SHAC Meetings:
September 9, 2025
November 13, 2025
February 12, 2026
March 19, 2026
April 27, 2026