Engaging Parents & Communities Through SHACs to Support Healthy, Active Schools
February 24, 2027 2pm
Webinar with Michelle Smith and Alice Kirk, AgriLife.
Having an effective way to communicate about programs and policies at the School District level is important, especially concerning child health issues. In Texas we have School Health Advisory Councils (SHACs) to help families and community members interact with district level staff and administrators. SHACs are required by law and have to meet specific guidelines for who should be members, how often to meet, what they must review and who the report to - the local school board. These committees are also mandated to review and make recommendations on recess policy and are required to have a subcommittee that reviews best practice and makes recommendations on how to increase physical activity for students. We will cover the laws governing SHACs, including members and basic meeting requirements. We will also explore best practice options on being active, the importance of supporting policies to ensure students get activity time and some of the opportunities for physical activity that might be overlooked. We will share resources to help attendees contact their local SHAC and find out when and where they meet. We will also provide links to different resources that can help attendees be more informed on SHACs.