Learning Objectives: (1) Describe the purpose and structure of the School Health Index. (2) Identify three different ways the School Health Index has been used to improve school health programs. (3) Describe three assessment items for tobacco prevention that have been made in the document for its second edition.
Abstract: Problem/Objective CDC’s School Health Index for Physical Activity, Healthy Eating, and Tobacco Free Lifestyle: A Self Assessment and Planning Guide is a tool designed to help schools assess and improve their physical activity, healthy eating, and (now) tobacco-use prevention policies and programs in the context of a coordinated school health program. The presenter will review the history, purposes, and structure of the School Health Index (SHI). The process of developing the second edition, to be released in 2002, will be discussed and additions that have been made to the document that include tobacco-use prevention will be identified. These additions include items and tools for a school to assess its tobacco-use prevention policies and programs and to plan for making improvements in those programs.
Methods The School Health Index was designed for school use at both the elementary and middle/high school levels. The SHI was developed by CDC staff with review from experts in the field and was based on recommendations from the CDC’s science-based school health guidelines documents.
Results Previous indicators from the study of use of the School Health Index by schools have been high. Therefore, it is expected that the addition of tobacco prevention will enhance nationwide efforts to address tobacco-use among school-age children.
Discussion Schools need effective strategies for school-based tobacco-use prevention programs. The implementation of the School Health Index will enable schools to assess tobacco-use prevention programs in a comprehensive way and develop plans to improve those programs.
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