MISSISSIPPI STATE -- School and health personnel face many challenges in improving health among Mississippi's school children, and a June 6 through 8 conference in Biloxi will offer guidance.

The 2002 Mississippi Institute on School Health, Wellness and Safety Super Conference will provide a forum for school districts to learn about successful health programs and how to start them in schools. The conference is sponsored by health and education departments and organizations including the Mississippi Alliance for School Health, a partnership with Mississippi State University's Extension Service.

"Participants will begin developing action plans to advance school health programs in grades pre-kindergarten through 12 in their districts," said Pat Clemen, school health coordinator for the Mississippi Department of Health. "Following the conference, the teams from each school district will be equipped to affect change in the health status of students in the school."

Conference breakout topics will cover nutrition education, obesity, asthma management, sexual harassment, teen pregnancy, life skills and bioterrorism. Sessions also will focus on effective physical and health education programs.

The $200 registration fee includes a banquet, two breakfasts and two lunches, materials and admission to all sessions. The registration deadline is May 24. For more information, contact Clemen at (601) 576-7781.

Writer: Ashley Crawford