In this position paper of the American Public Health Association (APHA), emphasis is placed on the magnitude of the K-12 school community in both size and the duration of time individuals spend there and the subsequent need of good health education. The APHA states that it is concerned about the traditional crisis approach to health care, where the expense involved has sent medical costs soaring; programs dealing with crucial issues are eliminated, although the problems remain, because another crisis emerges calling for more new crash programs. The APHA states that it will exert leadership through its section and affiliates to assure for health education (a) time in the curriculum commensurate with other subject areas, (b) professionally qualified teachers and supervisors of health education, (c) innovative instructional materials and appropriate teaching facilities, (d) increased financial support at the local, state, and national levels to upgrade the quantity and quality of health education, and (e) a teaching/learning environment in which opportunities for safe and optimal living exist, and one in which a well-organized and complete health service is functioning. (Author/JA)