Unbalanced nutrition and physical inactivity are amongst the top two determinants of mortality and chronic diseases. In a field trial conducted during 1993-1997, Eat Well and Keep Moving (EW&KM) a school-based health promotion program, was found to produce desirable effects in reducing chronic disease risks among fourth and fifth graders in Baltimore. The program design has been driven by theories including the social marketing approach that calls for understanding of the target audiences prior to program design. Using the interdisciplinary approach with links to other school components, the program was well received by school staff and students. Significant reduction in students' total and saturated fat intake and television viewing time and increases in fruits and vegetable intake were observed. Despite the program success, there was no guarantee that the program would be institutionalized. Since the completion of the field trial in 1997, Baltimore Department of Education has sustained the program with very limited and unpredictable resources. To help institutionalize and sustain the program, matching funds in nutrition education were secured from Food Stamps Nutrition Education Program (for 00-01) by the Maryland Director of EFNEP. For 00-01, forty-six teachers (who in turn trained an average of 5 teachers) from 41 schools were trained to implement EW&KM resulting in a total of 262 teachers being trained. This presentation will examine an avenue of sustainability and the facilitators and barriers to school-based program sustainability in an urban school systems that serves low income, ethnic populations that are at increased risk for obesity and related chronic disorders.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, the participant will be able to: 1) list the theoretical framework in the design of a school-based program, 2) identify elements that will facilitate the success of the program, 3) identify facilitators and barriers in evidence-based program sustainability, 4) understand how to use Food Stamps Nutrition Education Program matching funds for program sustainability and 4) challenges in program sustainability.
Keywords: School-Based Programs, Physical Activity
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.