Advanced Cooking Education Full Scale Study

BEHAVIORAL

ACE intervention

Participants attend the ACE Program for 12 weeks after school. On one assigned day of the week, participants attend ACE in person after school. The session begins with mindfulness exercises (20 minutes), nutrition education lesson/cooking lab (65 minutes, odd weeks) OR professional development session (65 minutes, even weeks). On any day during the 2-week cooking period, the students will make a dish using groceries they received with their parent/guardian (1 hour).

Difference in change in diet quality between intervention phase (12-24wk) and control phase (0wk-12wk)

Time frame: 0 weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, 48 weeks

Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores are calculated from three 24-hour diet records, range from 0-100. Higher score reflects higher alignment between one's diet and recommendations from Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA).

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.