The beginning of a new school year is an exciting and busy time for families in Jefferson County. As families in our community adjust to new routines, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) knows this season can also be stressful and complicated. To help our community get a good start to the fall semester, JCPH is excited to announce the release of a new report, titled "Helping Jeffco Kids Thrive: A review of Healthy Kids Colorado Survey data and exploration of public health resources available for families" [PDF]. This report offers insight, research, tips and resources around some of the important health considerations for families and youth.
One of the most important updates for Jeffco families is the new data released earlier this summer by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment from the 2021 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (HKCS) [external]. This biennial survey is administered to middle and high schoolers across the state to gauge areas of success and concern — and opportunities for improvement — on a number of critical topics facing youth today, including mental health, nutrition, sexual health, substance use, school and community engagement and much more.
JCPH invites all interested county residents to read the report [PDF], as well as to familiarize themselves with the the HKCS survey data. Together, we as a community can work to create healthier, safer and more encouraging environments for teens and children.