The use of portfolios in coordinated school health programs: benefits and challenges to implementation.
BACKGROUND
Coordinated school health programs (CSHP) frequently struggle with how to adequately evaluate implementation. The CSHP framework provides flexibility in how it is implemented; however, this flexibility makes it a challenge to effectively evaluate. Portfolios have been used as a technique for evaluating progress and achievement. This article describes the development and implementation of a CSHP portfolio and examines the perceptions of school personnel who have used CSHP portfolios.


METHODS
This study employed content analysis and key informant interviews. Two elementary, 4 middle, and 2 high schools in Florida participated.


RESULTS
Portfolios (N = 5) contained rich descriptions and program artifacts documenting each school's CSHP goals and activities. Key informant interviews (N = 14) revealed that school personnel found value in completing CSHP portfolios. CSHP portfolios were described as helpful in assessing progress, facilitating transition with new members, and building support for their efforts. Barriers to portfolio development included lack of time, money, and human resources.


CONCLUSIONS
This study found the use of portfolios in documenting the implementation of the CSHP feasible and useful for school personnel. Portfolios provide a rich description of CSHP activities that may not be apparent through traditional program reports used for evaluation. As portfolios continue to be used in implementing CSHP, they may be viewed as a best process for CSHP implementation and a key element in the evaluation of CSHP.
Barnes
Seraphine Pitt
SP
University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, VI 00802, USA. sbarnes@uvi.edu
Torrens
Anna
A
George
Valerie
V
Brown
Kelli McCormack
KM
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D005431:Florida; D006266:Health Education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000379:methods*; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*