SHAC

What is the school health advisory committee?

As defined by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), a School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC) is appointed by the school district to serve at the district level and to provide guidance to the district on coordinated school health programming and its impact on student health and learning. The group of individuals represent segments of the community and school district.

Texas law (Texas Education Code, Title 2, Subtitle F, Chapter 28, Subchapter A, §28.004) requires the establishment of a SHAC for every school district. The SHAC is required to meet at least four times each year.

The SHAC assists the districts in ensuring that local community values are reflected in health education instruction. Additionally, SHACs play an important role in strengthening the connection between health and learning. They can help parents and community stakeholders reinforce the knowledge and skills children need to stay healthy for a lifetime.