Process evaluation is an essential element of a multicenter trial in o
rder to explain study outcomes and monitor intervention progress. This
paper presents the process evaluation model for the Eat Smart School
Nutrition Program, the food service intervention component of the Chil
d and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH), and describe
s the process evaluation strategies developed to assess this program.
The paper details (1) measures of program implementation including tra
ining, support visits, and program promotion, (2) food service staff c
haracteristics, and (3) measures of mediating variables including secu
lar trends and school meal participation.