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District recommends Health Smart for 6–12 health curriculum; final vote June 30
Summary
Staff recommended Health Smart for middle and high school health instruction, citing alignment with national anchor standards, Spanish translations, and Minnesota‑specific supplements (vaping, CPR, media literacy). The board will vote on adoption on June 30.
District curriculum staff presented an informational update recommending Health Smart as the 6–12 health curriculum. Coordinator Gardner summarized teacher feedback: the materials align with national anchor standards, offer student‑skill practice (decision‑making, communication, advocacy), and include Spanish translations for family materials. "The curriculum that we are recommending is Health Smart," Gardner said.
Staff noted that Minnesota is finalizing state health standards but that the Health Smart anchor standards match national anchors; the vendor intends to provide Minnesota‑specific lessons as needed (for example, supplemental lessons on vaping, mental health, CPR and media literacy). Anoka County Public Health will supply additional substance‑use lessons and teacher training at no cost to districts in the county.
Costs cited: a print teacher edition one‑time cost of $68.75 per teacher and a digital license at $68.75 per teacher per year. Staff described a standard district review process (teacher review, administrative review, CACR review) and said the item will be placed on the June 30 consent agenda for approval.
What happens next: If approved June 30, staff will purchase materials, provide professional development this summer and fall, and work with peer coaches and principals on standards alignment.
Ending: Staff emphasized family engagement and a process for offering alternatives for families with objections to specific lessons; the district will provide detailed syllabi and family notices before implementation.
