School-based substance abuse prevention programs can be an effective means of identifying at-risk youth in the early stages of addiction. The purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of a school-based program that targeted middle and high school students within a mid-central Florida school district. The program was evaluated by measuring pretest and posttest scores on students who entered and exited the program during one school semester. Follow-up surveys were mailed to students and parents eight months after completing the program. The results revealed that all five program objectives were met. In addition, comparison of knowledge, attitude and behavior between program participants and the general student population indicated the program had a positive influence on reducing substance abuse among the at-risk participants. For example, a higher percentage of students who participated in the program knew that alcohol, marijuana and other drugs are harmful to health as compared to the general population. Similar attitude and behavior changes were found. "Use in the last 30 days" showed that 17% of the participants used marijuana, 1% had used cocaine, 1% had used inhalants, and 1% had used other drugs; compared to 16% of the general student population had used marijuana, 7% had used cocaine, 10% had used inhalants, and 8% had used other drugs. This session will highlight the program plan, implementation and evaluation.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Identify the evaluation methodology of a school-based prevention program. 2. Recognize the strengths and weaknesses of a similar program. 3. Create a plan to assess, plan, implement and evaluate a similar program
Keywords: School-Based Programs, Substance Abuse Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.