Use of University/School Partnerships for the Institutionalization of the Coordinated School Health Program

Abstract

Background: Health educators have discussed the importance of the eight component Coordinated School Health Program (CSHP) approach to facilitate the success of school health education.1 Conducting a School Health Index (SHI) assessment of the CSHP is an important early step for improving the health, environment and academic success of youth. Purpose: To: (1) provide process evaluation data to improve a University-school partnership designed to assist in assessing the current state of the CSHP in 25 area schools and (2) to assess the level of institutionalization of the resulting SHI generated action plans. Methods: A 27-item questionnaire was used to conduct follow-up interviews with the project schools following the completion of the SHI assessment. Results: Data supported the continuation of the university-school partnership model for facilitating the SHI assessment. Only moderate institutionalization of SHI action plans for advancing the CSHP was shown, mostly related to policy and school environment changes. Discussion: Findings indicated the need for health coordinators taking a strong role in the assessment, for developing administrative support, for expanding parent and community involvement and for a formal process evaluation monitoring system to increase accountability. Translation to Health Education Practice: Additional recommendations for improving the partnership and the CSHP institutionalization following an SHI assessment are presented.