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ERIC Number: EJ907959
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2010
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1559-5676
EISSN: N/A
Scheduling Recess before Lunch: Exploring the Benefits and Challenges in Montana Schools
Bark, Katie; Stenberg, Molly; Sutherland, Shelly; Hayes, Dayle
Journal of Child Nutrition & Management, v34 n2 Fall 2010
Purpose/Objectives: The purpose of the "Montana Recess Before Lunch Survey" was to explore benefits, challenges, and factors associated with successful implementation of Recess Before Lunch (RBL), from the perspective of school principals. Methods: An online written questionnaire was distributed to all (N = 661) Montana elementary and middle school principals (grades K-8), in partnership with the Montana Office of Public Instruction. A total of 195 principals completed the survey, for a response rate of 30%. Descriptive statistics were generated for each survey item and responses to open-ended items were organized according to their thematic content. Results: Montana elementary principals reported a variety of benefits associated with a RBL schedule. These included student health and wellness benefits (increased food consumption, more pleasant eating environment), as well as positive changes for schools (improved student behavior across school settings). Most frequently noted challenges for schools included those associated with revising class schedules, developing efficient methods for hand washing, and providing adequate student supervision during lunch blocks. Important factors that promoted successful implementation of RBL included support from school staff, strong leadership by the administration, and effective cooperation among personnel. Staff, student, and parent acceptance were associated with continued implementation of RBL. Applications to Child Nutrition Professionals: This study provides valuable information about the potential benefits and challenges of RBL, which can be used by child nutrition professionals to support school wellness efforts and to encourage implementation of RBL as an effective school-wide wellness strategy. (Contains 3 tables.)
School Nutrition Association. 120 Waterfront Street Suite 300, National Harbor, MD 20745. Tel: 301-686-3100; Fax: 301-686-3115; e-mail: servicecenter@schoolnutrition.org; Web site: http://schoolnutrition.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Elementary Secondary Education; Grade 1; Grade 2; Grade 3; Grade 4; Grade 5; Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Junior High Schools; Kindergarten; Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Montana
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A