Northbrook Junior High Awarded Health Education Blue Ribbon

NORTHBROOK, IL — The students at Northbrook Junior High School are especially healthy. That's thanks to health teacher Wendy Concklin and the school's health education curriculum. Both were recently honored as state Blue Ribbon Award winners for Excellence in Health Education

The award highlights exceptional curriculum and school programs that support student health and well-being, according to Northbrook District 28. The recognition is valid for five years.

The Illinois School Health Association and Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance made the award after a detailed application and an on-site visit where two representatives interviewed teachers, administration, students and parents, according to a news release from the district. Officials said Concklin has designed and continually updates the health curriculum for all students in grades 6 through 8. Every student participates in nine weeks of health education each year.

"Northbrook Junior High continues to exemplify how a school community works together to reach today’s youth in health education," said Ben Leven. of ISHA/IAHPERD.

According to the district, Concklin uses "multiple sources to develop customized, age-appropriate coursework at each grade level." The Quest for Health program focuses on health promotion, wellness prevention, maintenance of positive health and complies with all state-standards. The entire curriculum is posted online for parent and student access.

“We are thrilled to receive this honor,” Concklin said.

In addition to the health curriculum, NBJH was noted for focusing resources on the whole child and offering diverse extracurricular activities including video club which produces the morning announcement, Builders Club, and Fitness Cub. Other school initiatives include the Charity of Choice, food drive, coat drive, Peer Mentors, Buddy Group and LGBTQIA+ group.

Students have the choice to participate in the school musical, work in the garden, participate in athletics and play in various instrumental and vocal groups, according to the district. This variety of opportunity “gives every student the opportunity to be seen, valued for their contribution, attributes and talents,” the group wrote in its evaluation.

“District 28 firmly believes in educating the whole child,” Principal Dr. Scott Meek said. “NBJH is proud to offer a variety of events, programs and supports that promote students' health and well-being, and Wendy Concklin's leadership in this area is unparalleled.”

Concklin and NBJH will be recognized at the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Association awards ceremony on Nov. 30.