CDC's 2020 School Health Profiles Report (Profiles) is now available online along with 2020 state-specific results illustrated on U.S. maps. Conducted biannually since 1996, Profiles measures progress in the implementation of school policies and practices to help improve the health of school-aged youth. Education and health officials can use Profiles data to support health-related policies and legislation. States and school districts can use the data to plan and monitor school programs and identify professional development needs.
The 2020 Profiles indicates the following increases at the school level, among 50% or more of states:
- The percentage of schools where students take two or more required health education courses.
- The percentage of schools that do not sell less healthy foods and beverages, like soda, fruit drinks, sports drinks, baked goods, salty snacks and candy.
- The percentage of schools in which health education staff worked with physical education staff, mental health or social services staff and nutrition or food staff on health education activities during the current school year.
The 2020 Profiles also indicates the following increases at the district level, among 50% or more of states:
- The percentage of schools that offer opportunities for students to participate in physical activity through organized physical activities or access to facilities to equipment for physical activity before the school day.
- The percentage of schools that taught required physical education for 7th, 8th, 11th and 12th graders.
- The percentage of schools with a School Improvement Plan that includes health-related objectives on employee wellness.
Findings from the 2020 Profiles report show progress among many school health policies and practices, and also suggest several areas for improvement. The goal is to continue to monitor progress while working towards creating healthier and supportive schools where students can
- Have opportunities to be physically active during the school day
- Practice healthy eating
- Get coordinated health services to manage chronic health conditions, and
- Participate in healthy and academic-enriching out-of-school time programs.
More information on the 2020 Profiles is available here. Get answers to common questions, request data files, and download the Profiles questionnaires.
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Adam Lustig
Director, Center for Safe Schools
National School Boards Association
Alexandria, VA
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