Perceptions of Elementary School Nutrition Education Practices by School Foodservice Directors, Teachers, and Principals

• Published in: Journal of child nutrition & management Vol. 30
• Main Authors: Lambert, Laurel G, Carr, Deborah H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2006
• Subjects: attitudes and opinions; child nutrition; elementary schools; elementary students; food service workers; managers; nutrition education; nutrition knowledge; perceptions (cognitive); school food service; teachers
• ISSN: 1559-5676; 1559-5676

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the perceptions and practices of foodservice directors, teachers, and principals in regards to providing nutrition education to elementary students. Methods: Foodservice directors, teachers, and principals completed a survey designed to obtain information concerning their perceptions and practices of providing nutrition education to elementary school students in Arkansas and Idaho. Respondents indicated their level of agreement to 28 statements using a Likert-type rating scale (1 = strongly disagree to 4 = strongly agree). A fifth category of "don't know" was provided for respondents who felt they were not qualified to answer a statement. Cumulative frequencies were determined for all survey statements. Factor analysis also was performed. Results: Useable surveys were completed and returned by 96 (69%) foodservice directors, 482 (52%) teachers, and 91 (65%) principals. All three groups agreed that nutrition education is valued at their schools, but inadequate funds are allocated to support nutrition education. They also agreed that parents should be involved in lessons and activities when nutrition education is taught at school. Principals believed that teachers and foodservice staff need training to provide nutrition education, while foodservice directors and teachers felt that they are adequately trained. Fifty-six percent of teachers and 78% of directors agreed that menu items served in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) reinforce nutrition education provided in the classroom. Application to Child Nutrition Professionals: A supportive and knowledgeable school staff and an encouraging school environment must be in place if nutrition education is to be successfully incorporated into elementary schools' wellness policies. Although foodservice directors are not directly responsible for the delivery of nutrition education to elementary students, they are in a position to play a vital role in contributing to a supportive school nutrition environment.