Comprehensive School Health and Whole Child Education at MPJH
A school’s core mission is to teach students academic knowledge, cognitive and physical skill development. However, it has become understood that schools cannot achieve this if their students are not healthy. (Story et al. 2009)
At Michael Phair we believe in a whole child educational approach. We teach the knowledge and skills needed to support emotional, mental, and physical health through a holistic approach. Whole-child education includes policies, practices, and relationships that ensure each child is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. Students are provided an education with a whole child focus a nd use a variety of pathways and supports to meet all needs. For example SEL (Social Emotional Learning), health literacy, and a cross curricular focus between all subject areas.
Research shows that the most effective way to have a positive impact on the whole child is through a Comprehensive School Health (CSH) approach. We focus on four components: Social & Physical Environment (school climate and culture), Teaching and Learning (differentiated instruction, comprehensive curriculum, critical thinking), Partnerships and Services (supports, community members and organizations), and lastly Healthy School Policy (ensure that schools practices support a whole child approach). Through this framework we as a team recognize:
MICHAEL PHAIR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Our new school, located in the community of Webber Greens, is named after Michael Phair, an advocate, educator and civic leader. Read his full biography to learn more about his outstanding contributions and achievements. Our school will strive to represent the outstanding personal qualities and community-minded legacy of our namesake, Michael Phair.
I am honoured to be appointed the first Principal of Michael Phair Junior High School. It will be our primary goal to create a school community that reflects Michael’s dedication to the communities he serves.
We have exciting and innovative work ahead. Opening a new school building comes with many opportunities and challenges. Together it will be our mandate to create a school community that will bring our students, staff, families and other partners together in the best interest of our kids. Our school culture will be built on the foundation of building solid relationships, supporting students, and the creation of a “School Community” that will serve all our students and their families. Together we will set high standards for academics and citizenship for our students, and honour our namesake.
As the principal at Michael Phair Junior High School, I am committed to ensuring your children have a safe and welcoming school environment in which each student can achieve to their potential, and become confident, contributing citizens of our world. I look forward to meeting and working with you in the coming months as we work together to make Michael Phair School a great place for all students.
Brad Mamchur
Principal
