1. Translating the Evaluation Framework in the MPR
Challenge: How we move forward in translating the evaluation framework into our SNAP-Ed Plans.

2. Evidence-Based SNAP-Ed Programming and Evaluation
An evaluation committee was established in the Mountain Plains Region to focus on evidence-based nutrition education and obesity prevention strategies.
As part of the FFY2015 SNAP-Ed Plan submission process, MPRO required States to submit logic models.
The logic model was our first step in aligning the framework with program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
The SNAP-Ed guidance requires SNAP-Ed Plans to be evidence-based. In order to focus on the requirements in our region, we formed an evaluation committee in the spring of FFY2014.

3. Utah SNAP-Ed
Example of Utah’s Logic Model: Also included short term, medium term, long term, and impacts.

4. Utilizing an Existing MIS Platform to Standardize Reporting and Tracking
During our Spring FFY2015 SNAP-Ed Conference in Utah, the region identified the need for a standardized regional evaluation system.
This would enable us to systematically collect data on our priority outcome indicators and provide us with aggregate data at the regional level utilizing the SNAP-Ed Evaluation Framework.
A regional reporting and tracking system (PEARS) allows us to work toward common indicators within the evaluation framework
During a SNAP-Ed ME in Kansas, the Mountain Plains Regional Office was introduced to a MIS system they were utilizing to collect program impact data, which was later introduced during our SNAP-Ed Conference in Utah. With a team of experts (Aaron - Technology Lead, Allison – Evaluation Lead, and Joel Tech Support Lead) we were able to unveil a regional reporting and tracking system (PEARS)

5. Reporting System Alignment
This is an illustration of the process Kansas SNAP-Ed and OEIE followed to align the guidance, their SNAP-Ed plan, and the evaluation framework. The PEARS System is the technical reporting of activities, programs, including the MPR priority indicators.

6. Sharing our Stories of Success
MPRO requested quarterly success stories highlighting interventions directed at all levels of the framework with special emphasis placed on policy, systems, and environmental change interventions.
Identify successful and innovative strategies through our stories of success.
Allows for compelling stories with State officials, commissioners, and other key stakeholders.
Prior to PEARS, MPRO had requested quarterly success stories through the system. The goal was to identify successful and innovative SNAP-Ed interventions and strategies directed at all levels of the framework. The MPRO will be able to capture Success Stories through PEARS.

7. Iowa Nutrition Network: Farm to School: A Success Among Staff and Students
By submitting the success story in PEARS, I can query the system for stories based on levels of the SEM Framework and/or partnerships. This is beneficial for information often requested by regional FNS Senior Leaders.
Photo Courtesy of: Iowa Nutrition Network – Linn County Extension Ann Torbert

8. Next Steps
Leverage resources to enhance our capacity to analyze and map our data.
Review of instrument tools within PEARS
Face-to face meeting in Denver, CO
A few weeks ago, we met with MO folks and Community Commons to identify ways to leverage our resources to enhance our capacity to analyze and map our data.
We will also begin reviewing all the instrument tools within PEARS and align with the framework.
Lastly, we are planning a face-to-face meeting in Denver CO for additional training and technical assistance with the Framework, PEARS, and further identify indicators we can begin to systematically measure across our region.