Superintendents' perceptions of schoolsite health promotion in Missouri

This study assessed school district superintendents' perceptions of schoolsite health promotion in Missouri using a telephone survey method. Superintendents of 150 school districts were surveyed using The Worksite Health Promotion for Faculty and Staff section of the Eight-Component Assessment. Staff identification of blood pressure, healthful cafeteria menus, and smoke-free school policies were perceived as the most frequently offered health-promoting activities. Quality of programs as perceived by district superintendents ranged from "average" to "exemplary." For school districts not offering programs, healthful cafeteria menus, staff identification of blood pressure, and stress management were perceived by superintendents as highly necessary. The number of programs offered in each area differed significantly by demographic characteristics: accreditation classification, assessed valuation, size, and residence. Supportive attitudes by superintendents are critical to attain schoolsite health promotion programs for faculty and staff as part of a comprehensive school health program in Missouri.