Focusing on well-being to create healthy community
The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” In the last few years, our health has been an important topic of discussion as we felt the impact of a global pandemic in so many aspects of our lives.
But the importance of focusing on creating a healthy community is not new. It was Winston Churchill who said, “healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.” Many employers are now embracing that sentiment to make sure their work “community” is healthy.
We now have the evidence to demonstrate workplace well-being and job performance are directly related.
Healthy workers have more energy, leading to increased problem-solving and creativity. If we aren’t taking care of our important resources, including our staff members, we aren’t being as effective as we can be.
Oakwood Schools, along with other area school districts, are engaging in opportunities to revitalize our staff wellness programs. Using money from a grant, the district is hoping to enhance well-being so all of our staff members can be optimal educators for our students. The program unveiled this school year includes a number of activities to encourage healthy habits like walking, staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods and learning to deal with stress.
Staff members were first surveyed to determine interests and availability. To make any program a success, it’s important to tailor the offerings to create value for the participants and the organization as a whole. If you aren’t providing what people want and are willing to join, the program won’t grow.
Our staff members responded, sharing their ideas and telling us what they needed and what would motivate them to take steps to improve their well-being. From there, we began creating activities and challenges. As a community of educators, our staff members embrace learning new ideas and concepts for the classrooms but often forget about themselves. Offering these activities allows them to take care of themselves and our students.
Through this wellness effort, the district is also making positive community connections, bringing in experts like fitness instructors from Space Three to lead weekly exercise programs in our school buildings open to all staff members.
The Oakwood Schools Social-Emotional Learning team is also focusing on our staff, creating opportunities for them to develop their own social well-being and bond as a team. The SEL team facilitates professional development for staff members, giving them useful professional and life skills. They also promote regular opportunities for connections, physical activities, recognition and fun.
Whether it’s improving an employee’s physical, mental or social well-being, the Centers for Disease Control say the efforts pay off, allowing employees to reach their highest potential. As we continue to embrace these new and exciting programs, we look forward to helping our staff be happy, healthy and the best they can be.