Our Goal
The School Health NJ Project’s goal is to improve the health (physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially) and well-being of students and school staff as well as the health and safety of the school environment.
Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child
The Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) Model is the framework used to promote healthy schools and improve overall adolescent health. The model contains ten components used to address the needs of students, strengthened by a school-wide approach and supported by key community members and resources.Grants are available to schools throughout the 7 counties of the Northern New Jersey region (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex and Warren) to create healthier school environments. Through these grants the Center’s School Health team hopes to improve student and staff wellness by increasing opportunities for enhanced lifestyle choices.
How does the WSCC School Health Project NJ Grant work?
Through NJDOH funding and a 3–4-year partnership with CFPC’s School Health Team, schools have the opportunity to strengthen their district’s capacity to support and sustain healthy school change. This time together will allow schools to establish a WSCC Health & Wellness Coordinator position, create a Health & Wellness team, and develop a School Health Improvement Plan based on the ten components. The team will assess, develop, implement, and report on school health, wellness policies, programs, and activities. This model will create an opportunity for school systems to improve school health, enhance students learning ability and create sustainable change.
Newsletters
Current Northern Region Grantee Schools
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Joseph H. Brensinger PS 17 – Hudson County
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President Barack Obama Community School, PS 34 – Hudson County
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Dr. Michael Conti, PS5 – Hudson County
- Union City High School – Hudson County
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West Caldwell Tech High School – Essex County
Youth Advisory Board
The Northern New Jersey Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a dynamic group of students in grades 8–12 from seven northern counties: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren. YAB members meet virtually to discuss important health and wellness topics that matter to them and explore ways to create positive change in their communities.
Through engaging conversations and youth-led initiatives, the YAB gives students a platform to make their voices heard at the state level. In addition to advocacy, the YAB connects members with academic, professional, and recreational opportunities from across New Jersey.
With monthly raffles, games, contests, and prizes, every meeting is not only meaningful but fun. Whether youth are passionate about making a difference or just looking to meet other motivated peers, the YAB is a great place to get involved. Most meetings are held on the 1st Thursday evening of each month at 6pm.
Youth Leadership Conference
The annual Youth Leadership Conference brings together students in grades 8–12 from Northern and Central New Jersey for a full day of leadership development and personal growth. The event features a keynote speaker and interactive workshops focused on leadership skills such as communication, confidence, and teamwork. In the afternoon, participants take part in traditional camp activities like archery, boating, tie-dyeing, candle-making, and more, creating an experience that is both meaningful and memorable.
Students leave feeling empowered, supported, and inspired to lead in their communities. See some quotes from students:
~ “It’s a safe space.” ~ “It got me out of my comfort zone.” ~ “It made me feel comfortable with myself.”
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training (YMHFA) is a nationally recognized program developed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and offered through the New Jersey Department of Health’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) School Health NJ Grant. Facilitated by The Center for Prevention and Counseling’s School Health Team, this training prepares adults who regularly interact with youth, such as parents, caregivers, educators, school staff, and community members, to identify and respond to mental health and substance use challenges in adolescents ages 12 to 18. Participants explore common mental health concerns among youth, review typical adolescent development, and learn a five-step action plan for supporting young people in both everyday and crisis situations. At the end of the training, each participant receives a Certificate of Completion from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, helping to build a stronger network of supportive and informed adults in our schools and communities.
“I am grateful to have had this opportunity. Thanks for providing the invaluable info and support.” ~ Youth Mental Health First Aid Participant
WSCC Leaders
The School Health Project at the Center is funded by the Maternal and Child Health Services Title V Block Grant, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health, Child and Adolescent Health Program.