Assessing the Feasibility of a Multi-Program School-Based Intervention to Promote Physical Activity and Healthful Eating in Middle Schools prior to Wide-Scale Implementation

Background: University-community partnerships can support schools in implementing evidence-based responses to youth obesity trends. An interorganizational partnership was established to implement and evaluate the Healthy Choices Collaborative Intervention (HCCI). HCCI combines an interdisciplinary curriculum, before/after school activities, and the School Health Index to promote physical activity, reduce television viewing, and increase fruit and vegetable consumption among middle school youths. Purpose: A modified rapid assessment process was used to explore potential influences on feasibility of implementing and sustaining HCCI before wide-scale implementation. Methods: Twenty-one in-depth interviews were conducted with administrators, program coordinators, and teachers who had experience with one or more of the intervention components. Results: Respondents believed combining programs would be beneficial because of common behavioral goals. A key leader, an engaged, multidisciplinary team, and parental, community, and administrative support were viewed as being important for effective implementation. Respondents believed sustainability would be facilitated through resources for networking and refreshers on intervention components. Discussion: Findings resulted in hiring regional coordinators to assist schools in implementation, allowing schools flexibility in implementation, and reducing the required number of Planet Health lessons and School Health Index modules. Translation to Health Education Practice: Findings illustrate the utility of rapid assessment procedures to gauge feasibility of combining multiple interventions before implementation.