Office of Curriculum, Technology, & Assessment

A Vision for Health Education in South Dakota

The vision for the SD Health Education Standards is to improve educational achievement and the health of South Dakota students, by developing students who are health literate. Health literacy is the capacity of individuals to obtain, interpret and understand basic health information and services; and the competence to use such information and services in ways, which enhance health. Four characteristics were identified as being essential to health literacy. The health literate person is:

• a critical thinker and problem solver
• a responsible, productive citizen
• a self-directed learner
• an effective communicator