Linking implementation process to intervention outcomes in a middle school obesity prevention curriculum, 'Choice, Control and Change'

This chapter presents and discusses the fundamentals of the i2Flex teaching methodology from the perspective of the elementary and middle school principals. First, the Elementary School Principal (Ms. Makropoulos) will present how she has set the groundwork for students and faculty to embrace this new paradigm shift in the teaching and learning at American Community Schools (ACS) Athens. Then, the Middle School Principal (Ms. Augoustatos) presents and discusses the two-year implementation process of the i2Flex methodology of instruction.

This study examined the implementation of a school-based, obesity prevention curriculum, Together, We Inspire Smart Eating (WISE), targeting 3- to 7-year-old low-income children. Survey data from a convenience sample were collected from educators and parents (N = 73, N = 188, respectively) at the beginning and end of a school year in which WISE was implemented. Educators also reported on lessons weekly. Measures to evaluate the success of the implementation were conceptually distinct implementation outcomes (Educators: Perceived Barriers, Appropriateness, Acceptability, Feasibility, Fidelity; Parents: Adoption, Appropriateness). WISE was successfully implemented in 33 target classrooms representing 7 preschool centers and 2 elementary schools. Based on educator report, perceived barriers were reduced. Educators rated Appropriateness, Acceptability, and Feasibility high. Evidence of Fidelity was mixed. Parents reported indicators of Adoption and Appropriateness high. The study provided support for WISE in preschools and elementary schools serving young children from low-resource homes.