The public health CARES initiative: a framework for public health education in high schools using the SMAART model

On July 9, 2025 - The Public Health CARES paper was published in Frontiers | Publisher of peer-reviewed articles in open access journals, “The public health CARES initiative: a framework for public health education in high schools using the SMAART model.” This curriculum, instruction, and pedagogy article from Frontiers Publication focuses on a framework for public health education in high schools.  

The PH-CARES initiative (Coping, Adaptability, Resilience, Empathy, and Success) utilizes the SMAART framework (Sustainable, Multisector, Accessible, Affordable, Reimbursable, and Tailored) to tackle health challenges among youth and enhance health education within schools and communities.

The initiative features a public health dual-enrollment program, Public Health Clubs, and a Public Health Hackathon, all aimed at providing experiential learning opportunities. Preliminary assessments indicate that these programs effectively connect theoretical knowledge to practical applications, engaging students in public health campaigns, community projects, and case studies, while also allowing them to earn college credits through the dual-enrollment option.

Participants have gained a deeper insight into public health challenges, population health, social determinants, and data analysis, while becoming more aware of local health issues, thereby preparing them for future careers in public health.

The initiative's comprehensive approach highlights the potential for scalable public health education programs that empower students and enhance long-term community health and well-being, serving as a model for global implementation.

The PH-CARES framework is being successfully developed and implemented in India, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Turkey, and Portugal, as well as in the United States.

For any questions related to this publication feel free to reach out to Dean Ashish Joshi at ashish.joshi@memphis.edu 

Collaborators

• Ashish Joshi, PhD, MBBS, MPH, Dean and Distinguished University Professor
• Niharika Jha, Graduate Research Assistant, PhD student in Epidemiology
• Michelle Taylor, MD, DrPH, MPA, Director of Shelby County Health Department
• Nichole Saulsberry-Scarboro, PhD Director, PH IDEAS Workforce and Strategic Partnerships
• Courtney Orians, Admissions Dual Enrollment and Special Enrollment Programs
• Sally Parish, PhD, Vice Provost & Director of Schools at the University Schools
• Kristle Hodges Johnson, EdD, Executive Director, University High School
• Lori Ward, PhD, MS, Undergraduate Program Coordinator and Associate Professor of Teaching
• Coree Entwistle, Qualitative Researcher
• Satish Kedia. PhD, MPH, MS Associate Dean, Administration & Faculty Affairs, Professor, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences
• David Russomanno, PhD, Provost & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs University of Memphis 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1563971/full