Changes in Personal Wellness Habits Among Newer New Jersey Teachers During COVID-19 Impacted School Years.

Abstract

New Jersey Safe Schools Program (NJSS) provides work-based learning (WBL) trainings to certified teachers who supervise students in school-sponsored work placements. Some newer teachers shared existing and adopted new physical health habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Surveys were provided to teachers who completed NJSS WBL supervisory trainings between October 2021-June 2022, with a follow-up survey Fall 2022. This cross-sectional study focused on a subset of questions on their self-reported behavioral habits regarding processed food/snack consumption, aerobic exercise, and sleep health. Of 114 teachers, approximately 3-in-5 (62.1%) woke up during the night and 1-in-3 (36.8%) found difficulty waking up in the morning on a school/workday; 1-in-10 (10.5%) sleep less than five hours per night. Regarding personal nutrition, 1-in-3 participants (37%) consumed processed snacks/foods daily. Concerning physical health, 2-in-5 participants (43.8%) decreased aerobic exercise habits during the initial survey but increased at follow-up. Data suggest NJ teachers adapted personal nutrition, sleep, and aerobic exercise habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data offer guidance to help schools better address teacher needs, including healthy eating, wellness, and physical activity.