Health education in the school environment: interdisciplinary practices, constitutional guarantees, and full development of the individual

Abstract

Health Education in schools plays a crucial role in promoting the physical, mental, and social well-being of students, contributing to the formation of healthy and conscious citizens. By integrating health promotion into daily activities, this approach aims to disseminate information and encourage healthy habits, emphasizing the importance of interaction between the school and healthcare teams. Key points such as disease prevention, nutrition education, physical activity, mental health, sexual education, drug prevention, community partnerships, and ongoing evaluation outline a comprehensive plan. Considering the historical context from hygienic models to contemporary approaches, a critical understanding of these phases is vital for creating a healthy school environment and empowering students to make informed choices for a healthy life. In addition, the Health in School Program (PSE) is a joint initiative of the Ministries of Health and Education in Brazil, launched in 2007, to promote the health and well-being of public school students. With an emphasis on integrating health and education, PSE covers various areas, including healthy eating, disease prevention, combating Aedes aegypti, and physical activity, operating in all stages of basic education. Community involvement is crucial, and the program involves constant monitoring and access to healthcare services. PSE stands out for its preventive focus, aiming to educate conscious and healthy citizens. Furthermore, the article argues for the integration of health into the Political-Pedagogical Project (PPP) of schools, as advocated by the 1988 Federal Constitution. It emphasizes the influence of economic and social policies on population health and the school's importance as a space for health promotion. The National Common Curricular Base and National Curriculum Parameters recognize the transversality of health in education. PPP, seen as a democratic instrument, is essential for collaboration between health and education. The pedagogical approach of John Dewey and Paulo Freire highlights the importance of experience, dialogue, awareness, meaningful learning, empowerment, reflective practice, and cultural contextualization. The expansion of this approach to teachers and staff is considered vital in the educational process.