Abstract:
This study measures the impact of Operation Wellness and the Coordinated School Health Program model on students' health-related behaviors after two years of implementation in the Southern Wells School District (SWSD) in Wells County, IN. Results of the School Physical Activity and Nutrition (SPAN) survey, conducted when the students were in 4th grade (2003-04)' are compared to results obtained when the same students were in 6th grade (2005-06). The SPAN questionnaire consisted of 49 questions which focused on the types of foods consumed "yesterday" (n=23), the students' physical activity and sports-related activities during the previous week (n=8), and students' health- related habits (n=18). Students were classified into four weight groups (underweight, normal weight, "at risk for overweight" and overweight) using the CDC growth charts. Underweight students were excluded from the study (n=3). Analysis examined the results of 59 fourth grade students enrolled in 2003-04 and 60 sixth grade students enrolled in 2005-06. BMI data indicated 39 percent were "at risk for" or were "overweight" in 2003; by 2006, the number increased to 40 percent. No differences were detected in the consumption of hits, vegetables, whole grains, or high protein foods over time; the consumption of fried meats, milk, and bread decreased between 4th and 6th grade while the consumption of cheese, yogurt, pasta, and snacks increased over time. Participation on sports teams increased over time from 0.86 to 1.60 teams. Significantly more students participated in non-aerobic exercise for 30 minutes or more (e.g., slow bicycling, skating, walking) as they got older. Students spent more "screen time" (e.g., watching TV, computer, video) as 6th graders (n=4.0*2.0 hrs) than as 4th graders (3.1k2.0 hrs; p=0.017). The Coordinated School Health Program and Operation Wellnessappear to have been somewhat successful in promoting physical activity among students in the Southern Wells School System. However, little evidence exists to indicate a significant improvement in nutrition knowledge and behavior. Programs that encourage aerobic activity, reducing 'screen time', and making healthier food choices should be emphasized in this community, beginning in the lower elementary grades.