Northbrook Junior High received a state Blue Ribbon Award for Excellence in Health Education for its curriculum and school programs that support student health and well-being.

NBJH received the award from the Illinois School Health Association and Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance after a detailed application and an on-site visit. Two representatives from ISHA/IAHPERD interviewed teachers, administration, students and parents. Wendy Concklin is the health teacher who has designed and continually updates the health curriculum for all students in grades 6-8. 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.

Ms. Concklin uses multiple sources to develop customized, age-appropriate course work at each grade level. Quest for Health 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,” Ms. Concklin said. The recognition is valid for five years.

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. 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,” said Dr. Scott Meek, NBJH principal. “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.” 

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