[ Feature Article ] In response to the surge in anti-transgender policies across the border and within our own Canadian classrooms, PHE Canada is focusing attention on current developments within our own communities, aiming to champion the rights of gender-diverse youth and areas for attention. The Well-Being Gap: Highlighting challenges and supports for gender-diverse youth health in BC, 2018-2023 provides an in depth look into the health of nearly 500 transgender and over 1000 nonbinary and questioning youth in British Columbia (BC).
[ Feature Article ] Comprehensive sexual health education provides students with the information and skills needed to enhance their sexual health and well-being throughout their lifespan. Sexual health education is essential in school settings. This blogpost highlights how Canadian classrooms have the potential to be an accessible and equitable environment to deliver accurate and inclusive sexual health education. As well, this is a call to action for physical health educators to advocate for and implement sexual health education in their classrooms.
[ Feature Article ] Healthy Relationships for Youth (HRY) is an evidence-based violence prevention program that empowers students through peer facilitation. Developed by the Antigonish Women's Resource Centre and Sexual Assault Services Association (AWRCSASA), HRY engages youth in vital conversations about healthy relationships. Grade 11 and 12 students receive youth-facilitator training for leading a series of twelve engaging, one-hour sessions for Grade 9 students in collaboration with their Healthy Living (Health Education) educator. The program's core mission is to reduce youth violence by instilling vital skills (e.g., communication, boundary setting, etc.) and understanding (e.g., consent, gender norms, social media, diversity and privilege, etc.) for fostering healthy relationships.
[ Research ] This article delves into an argument for removing a mandatory Beep Test (i.e., 20 Minute Shuttle Run Test or PACER) in physical education programming. The aim and purpose of education and of various curricula across Canada, as well as the wholistic concepts of health and physical literacy are all discussed. A student-centered, Meaningful Physical Education approach is suggested as a way forward. Solutions to addressing specific barriers to removing the Beep Test from physical education programming are offered using a Meaningful Physical Education framing.
[ Feature Article ] Teacher well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. In this reflective piece, Michelle shares her personal journey from burnout to recovery, including a pivotal transformation during the pandemic that forced her to slow down and prioritize her own healing. Drawing from decades of experience as an educator and coach, she offers practical strategies—like micro-reset moments, personalized wellness check-ins, and boundary-setting—to help educators sustain their energy and prevent burnout. Centred around the idea that you can’t pour from an empty cup, this piece empowers teachers to protect their flame and lead with vitality, presence, and purpose.