Pathways process evaluation results: a school-based prevention trial to promote healthful diet and physical activity in American Indian third, fourth, and fifth grade students

Abstract

Background: Pathways was a large-scale, multisite, 3-year, study testing a school-based intervention designed to lower percent body fat in American Indian children.

Methods: At the 21 intervention schools process evaluation data were collected for training of school personnel; implementation of the classroom and physical activity curricula; implementation of the project's food service guidelines in the school cafeterias; adult participation in the family events; and, students' perceived exposure to the Pathways interventions.

Results: Students received about 93% of the classroom curriculum lessons. The minimum requirement of physical education being taught three times per week for at least 30 minutes duration was achieved by the fifth grade. The implementation of the food service behavioral guidelines increased from 51% in the third grade to 87% in the fifth grade. The family events had lower than anticipated adult participation. The participation rates were 45% during the third grade, and 41 and 63% during the fourth and fifth grades, respectively. There was a significant difference between intervention and control students' perceived exposure to Pathways type interventions.

Conclusion: The Pathways interventions were successfully implemented with good reach, high extent, and fidelity.