At DREAM, the importance of maintaining a healthy mind and body is woven deeply into the school’s culture and educational philosophy, and social and emotional growth is fostered in every classroom. Our two full-time Health and Wellness Specialists work to ensure the health of our students and families. Given the particular health challenges present in East Harlem—which include epidemic levels of childhood obesity, asthma and diabetes—DREAM views this as a vital and unique aspect of its program.

In 2012, DREAM was recognized in two occasions for its successful school health program. New York City Strategic Alliance for Health named DREAM as the gold medal winner for the Excellence in Wellness award and the Center for Disease Control recognized DREAM as the Local Wellness Policy Implementation Success Story winner.

Coordinated school health program model

DREAM’s Coordinated School Health Program Model (CSHP) has grown to include seven interactive components that support each student’s physical, social and emotional health.

• Health Education teaches basics for healthy lifestyles such as safety and first aid, nutrition, disease prevention and control, family health, emotional and mental health and personal health practices.
• Physical Education covers subjects such as physical fitness, rhythms and dance, tumbling and gymnastics, team and individual sports, games and aquatics.
• Health Services includes referrals to primary health care services, providing emergency care and counseling opportunities.
• Nutrition Services provide students access to a variety of nutritious and appealing meals and learn about proper nutrition and healthy habits.
• Social Work Services improve students' mental, emotional and social health and includes individual and group assessments and referrals.
• Healthy School Environment ensures the area around the school is safe, healthy and more attractive.
• Health Promotion provides multiple opportunities for health and wellness living for staff, families and the community.