National Health Education Standards

The original National Health education Standards (NHES) report was produced in 1995. It has served the promotion of health literacy skills in school students as well as development of state and local curriculum standards in a number of ways over the years.

These standards were revised in 2006. Lead organizations and co-sponsors for the project include the American Association for Health Education, American Cancer Society, American School Health Association, the School Health Education and Services section (SHES) of the American Public Health Association, and the Society of State Directors for HPER.

HealthTeacher lessons have been developed based on the National Health Education Standards. All standards have been addressed with these lessons. This table allows you to quickly access the lessons linked to each standard's indicators.

Grades PK-2
Grades 3-5
Grades 5-8
Grades 9-12

2006 National Health Education Standards

Standard 1
Students will comprehend concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention to enhance health.

Standard 2
Students will analyze the influence of family peers, culture, media, technology, and other factors on health behaviors.

Standard 3
Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid information, products, and services to enhance health.

Standard 4
Students will demonstrate the ability to use interpersonal communication skills to enhance health and avoid or reduce health risks.

Standard 5
Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills to enhance health.

Standard 6
Students will demonstrate the ability to use Standard-setting skills to enhance health.

Standard 7
Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health-enhancing behaviors and avoid or reduce risks.

Standard 8
Students will demonstrate the ability to advocate for personal, family, and community health.