Sustaining a Pediatric Injury Prevention Program Through Educational Curriculum Dissemination

Abstract

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.