Health and Academics
Research shows a strong connection between healthy behaviors and academic achievement (e.g., grades, standardized tests, graduation rates, attendance).1-6 Healthy students are better learners, and academic achievement bears a lifetime of benefits for health. However, youth risk behaviors, such as physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behaviors, tobacco use, alcohol use, and other drug use are consistently linked to poor grades and test scores and lower educational attainment.7
School programs can use the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model to promote positive health behaviors and lessen negative health behaviors. School programs that account for the individual, family, school, and community can positively influence both student health behaviors and learning.8 Evidence-based, effectively coordinated, and strategically planned school health programs and services are also necessary for closing the academic achievement gap.9
Original research study focusing on the connection between self-reported grades in school and 30 health-related behaviors published in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR).
Dietary Behaviors and Academic Grades pdf icon[PDF – 480 KB]
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors and Academic Grades pdf icon[PDF – 474 KB]
Tobacco Use Behaviors and Academic Grades pdf icon[PDF – 534 KB]
Alcohol Use Behaviors and Academic Grades pdf icon[PDF – 777 KB]
Other Behaviors and Conditions and Academic Grades pdf icon[PDF – 382 KB]