The goal of health education is to provide Kentucky students with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2017), “research shows a strong connection between healthy behaviors and academic achievement (e.g., grades, standardized tests, graduation rates, attendance).” Skill development, in conjunction with opportunities for creating and reinforcing healthy behaviors, focuses on personal decision-making, goal setting, self-management, interpersonal communication, accessing information, analyzing influences and advocacy. When these skills are combined with foundational health-related information, students are equipped to navigate today’s complex society and lead healthy lifestyles.

HS.1.8. Describe the recommendation of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the importance of eating a variety of appropriate foods to meet daily nutrient and caloric needs. HS.1.9. Summarize how to make healthy food selections when dining out. HS.1.10. Summarize the importance of healthy eating and physical activity in maintaining a healthy weight.