The goal of the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) is to help Minnesotans live longer, better, healthier lives by reducing the burden of chronic disease.

SHIP interventions are designed to:

·        Reduce the percentage of Minnesotans who use or are exposed to tobacco

·        Reduce the percentage of Minnesotans who are obese or overweight

SHIP efforts will focus on obesity (through physical activity and healthy eating) and tobacco as the key risk factors to target interventions.  SHIP interventions will take place in four settings: Schools, Communities, Worksites, and Health Care Systems.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has involved community health boards, tribal governments, and numerous other key stakeholders in planning for SHIP.

The Role of Schools in the Statewide Health Improvement Program

Children learn some of life’s most important lessons in school.  That is why schools are considered a vital piece of the SHIP initiative.  SHIP works to improve the health of all Minnesotans, and schools are uniquely situated to support healthy behavior of children and youth.  Because children learn, eat, and play at school during the years when they are acquiring lifestyle habits, an environment that supports and models healthy behavior is critical to their becoming healthy, productive adults.

The Current Situation

Schools continue to experience competing priorities that sometimes result in decreased emphasis on the health of students.  In recent years, many schools have seen decreases in physical education, health education, and recess.  School celebrations, events, clubs, booster organizations, and sport programs sometimes promote low-nutrient, high-calorie foods.  Meanwhile, the obesity crisis continues, leading to increased chronic diseases in adults and children.

Benefits of Healthy Schools

·        Improved attendance of students and staff

·        Increased community connectedness

·        Improved academic performance

·        Improved classroom behavior

·        Increased graduation rates

·        Motivated school staff

Minnesota Department of Health

For more information and references, visit: www.health.state.mn.us/healthreform/ship