Implementing Policies to Enhance Physical Education and Physical Activity in Schools.

The purpose of this commentary is to provide an overview of national physical activity recommendations and policies (e.g., from the Institute of Medicine, National Physical Activity Plan, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and to discuss how these important initiatives can be implemented in local schools. Successful policies are illustrated. Specific strategies and ideas are shared regarding how physical educators can assert themselves and impart their knowledge in an effort to build support for policy implementations that enhance the delivery of physical education and physical activity in their schools and communities.

Sustaining a Pediatric Injury Prevention Program Through Educational Curriculum Dissemination.

Objective To examine the process of implementing, disseminating, and sustaining a pediatric pedestrian safety program in Miami-Dade County Public Schools as well as its utilization by education practitioners. Method A review of the programmatic phases, grant funding, publications, partnerships, curriculum completion data, teacher trainings, and 31 WalkSafe Curriculum Dissemination Surveys. Results The program has maintained partnerships with the school district, trauma centers, and other important stakeholders since the program's inception while grant funding has enabled the development, growth, and continuation of the program. Survey responses indicated the curriculum is easy to use and age-appropriate for learning, as well as identified sustainable measures for the future. Conclusion A multicomponent approach is essential for piloting, implementing, and sustaining an evidence-based pedestrian safety program in South Florida's public schools. Sustainable partnerships, policy through school board support, continued grant funding, community involvement, and evolving with the needs of schools and their communities are vital to sustaining program presence in the community.