Health literacy is an integral component of 21^st century education. Healthy students are learners who are “knowledgeable and productive, [and] also emotionally and physically healthy, motivated, civically engaged, prepared for work and economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond their own borders” (ASCD, 2004). As part of the state’s initiative to prepare students to function optimally as global citizens and workers, the contemporary view of health and physical education focuses on taking personal responsibility for one’s health through an active, healthy lifestyle that fosters a lifelong commitment to wellness. The mission and vision for comprehensive health and physical education reflects this perspective:

NJCCCS for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Mission: Knowledge of health and physical education concepts and skills empowers students to assume lifelong responsibility to develop physical, social, and emotional wellness.

NJCCCS for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Vision: A quality comprehensive health and physical education program fosters a population that:

·Maintains physical, social, and emotional health by practicing healthy behaviors and goal setting.

·Engages in a physically active lifestyle.

·Is knowledgeable about health and wellness and how to access health resources.

·Recognizes the influence of media, technology, and culture in making informed health-related decisions as a consumer of health products and services.

·Practices effective cross-cultural communication, problem solving, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.

·Is accepting and respectful of individual and cultural differences.

·Advocates for personal, family, community, and global wellness and is knowledgeable about national and international public health and safety issues.