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Methods, results, and lessons learned from process evaluation of the high 5 school-based nutrition intervention
K D Reynolds1, F A Franklin, L C Leviton
1Center for Behavioral Research and Community Studies, AMC Cancer Research Center, Lakewood, Colorado 80214, USA. reynoldsk@amc.org
Summary
The High 5 school program effectively increased fruit and vegetable consumption through classroom activities, but family involvement varied. Implementation was lower in schools serving minority and low-income students.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health Interventions
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern.
- Dietary interventions in schools aim to improve children's eating habits.
- Evaluating the implementation process is crucial for intervention success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a process evaluation of the High 5 school-based intervention.
- To assess the implementation fidelity and reach of intervention components.
- To identify factors influencing intervention delivery in diverse school settings.
Main Methods:
- The High 5 intervention targeted fruit and vegetable intake in fourth graders.
- Process evaluation utilized observations, checklists, and surveys across classroom, family, and cafeteria components.
- Outcome evaluation involved 28 schools randomized to intervention or control groups.
Main Results:
- High implementation rates were observed for classroom activities.
- Moderate family involvement was achieved, potentially impacting parent consumption outcomes.
- Cafeterias successfully implemented environmental cues and food offerings.
- Intervention dose was lower in schools with higher African American enrollment and lower-income families.
Conclusions:
- School-based dietary interventions can be effectively implemented, particularly classroom components.
- Family and community engagement strategies may require adaptation for diverse populations.
- Process evaluation provides valuable insights for refining school nutrition programs and future research.