By Paul Travers
Imagine an elementary school where wellness isn’t just a buzzword, but a cornerstone of student success. Washington Elementary in Greensboro, NC, is a prime example of this vision, implementing a groundbreaking Health and Wellness initiative aligned with the CDC’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model. This holistic approach fosters a healthier, more engaged student body through a multifaceted strategy.
The Strategy
Daily Movement: Students begin each day with 30 minutes of invigorating activity, combining circuit training with mindfulness exercises.
Kinesthetic Learning: Physical activity is seamlessly integrated into core subjects like math, science, and language arts, enhancing student engagement and cognitive function.
Specialized Wellness Labs: Students participate in engaging labs focusing on fitness, agility, and balance.
Wellness Pathways: Older students engage in weekly meetings exploring various wellness dimensions, including yoga, nutrition, and environmental awareness.
The Results
This holistic approach has yielded impressive results. Since the initial implementation of the WSCC model in 2023, Washington Elementary has seen a 35% decrease in student expressions of self-harm from 2024–2025 and a 50% decrease in lost instructional days due to out-of-school suspension. Moreover, the school has achieved an overall proficiency increase of 7.3% and exceeded state growth expectations for two consecutive years.
This impactful initiative has garnered attention beyond the school walls. Fox 8 News recently featured Washington Elementary’s Health and Wellness program on their “What’s Right with Our Schools” segment, highlighting the positive impact of this innovative approach.
This story showcases a practical and impactful approach to improving student well-being and academic outcomes. By prioritizing health and wellness, Washington Elementary is setting a powerful example for schools across the nation.
Paul Travers, the 2022 Guilford County Principal of the Year, leads Washington Elementary School (Greensboro, NC). Travers fosters hope and boosts performance at Washington by prioritizing community, movement, and student opportunities.
