Our Model and Partners

The SWITCH process was refined through a series of pilot studies that helped to evaluate strategies needed to improve school wellness environments. The steps helped to establish an evidence-based training and implementation process that can be broadly disseminated across the state. SWITCH is now available to all Iowa schools through a partnership with ISU 4-H youth programming. 

Iowa 4-H Extension

Our programming is coordinated through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach's 4-H Youth Development program. We work with county-based Extension staff to help disseminate SWITCH in schools across the state. Click here to find out more about Iowa's 4-H Youth Development program.

Iowa 4-H Foundation

The Iowa 4-H Foundation provides financial resources for youth development through 4-H. They provide the financial resources to develop and deliver quality 4-H youth programs throughout the state of Iowa, including SWITCH. 

Iowa Heart Center Foundation

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Iowa Heart Center Foundation, who are supporting SWITCH implementation starting in 2020. For more information about the Iowa Heart Foundation and their initiatives, click here.

Iowa's 5210 Initiative

SWITCH programming is consistent with other school-based initiatives such as 5210, which has been promoted through the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative. In fact, the same goals of 5210 are directly parallel to the same goals outlined in SWITCH.  Iowa Healthiest State is also now working with the Make It OK campaign to help reduce the stigma of mental illness.  SWITCH offers the Make It OK training to school staff who are a part of SWITCH.

• 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables
• 2 hours or less non-educational screen time
• 1 hour or more of physical activity
• 0 sugar sweetened beverages

The consistent messaging allows schools to use SWITCH to also support the 5210 movement, the Make It OK campaign and the Healthiest State Initiative. See the associated link for more information about the 5210 effort in Iowa. Iowa Healthiest State Initiative Website

Active Schools Initiative

We are also proud to partner with Active Schools, a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving physical activity in all children! For more information, visit their website.