“The students were engaged in thought provoking conversations and challenged to think like a policy maker and understand the law, why it was created and its impact on society.”
The H.A.P.P.Y. Curriculum
H.A.P.P.Y. encourages objective critical analysis - including policy analysis - and thought-provoking conversations to influence the way in which youth and young adults view and prepare for engagement with their communities and the world. H.A.P.P.Y. advocates for youth and young adults to attain critical health and public health literacy to create a foundational step for personal health and community health advocacy.
Encouraging Objective Thinking
The topics are presented in a conversational way, with no specific intention of persuading the participants to adopt a particular view, but rather to force the participants to think objectively about the presented topics. Through the examination of current scientific research, laws and policies at the federal, state, and local levels are identified to show the impact that these policies have on individual health and community health. Observational analyses and critical thinking is heavily integrated and strongly encouraged so that participants will begin to draw connections on their own, and further identify ways in which they can work to improve their individual health and the health of their communities.
Developing Early Health Literacy
A Lifelong Learning Journey
The Curriculum
Presents a simplified version of law, policy, and scientific research.
Introduces current policy events and the tangible outcomes.
Facilitates dialogues about health and policy as it affects them.
Teaches central themes that are necessary for improving their health and quality of life.
Provides action steps that can be explored to improve health.
Develops critical thinking and writing skills.
Key Themes and Learning Expectations
The H.A.P.P.Y. curriculum provides an introduction to law and policy, and touches on various aspects of health, including environmental health, mental health, and physical health and nutrition. The curriculum places a significant emphasis on social determinants of health, while introducing laws and policies in general.
Law and Policy
Health Equity
Social Determinants of Health
Community Health
Health Literacy
Health Disparities
Outcomes
Overall improved health literacy in policy, physical, mental, and environmental health.
Identification of social determinants that contribute to individual and community health outcomes.
Increased understanding of laws and policies generally, and how they directly impact the lives of individuals and communities.
Identification of methods to improve individual and community health status.
Broadening of awareness surrounding the overarching effects and underpinnings of policy in society.
Testimonials
“The curriculum was thoughtfully crafted to engage participants in activities that caused them to think critically about the world around them. Ebony was able to connect with our members in meaningful ways by engaging them in thought provoking conversations. These real-world relevant conversations and activities helped to influence the way in which our youth viewed their community. Needless to say, their eyes were opened to many issues at the local, state and national level.”
Julie Cary
Director of Strategic Partnerships, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain
“The content that was shared was excellent and our 4 part session covered topics relevant to public health and policy right now. The students were engaged in thought provoking conversations and challenged to think like a policy maker and understand the law, why it was created and its impact on society. They were able to apply how each policy affected their everyday life. Mrs Montgomery was engaging, fun, and an expert in her field. I would highly recommend virtual and in person sessions with Mrs. Montgomery, our school is definitely better because of them.”
Tonette L. Price
Community Partnerships Manager, Georgia Cyber Academy