Pubdate: Tue, 18 Sep 2001
Source: Cleveland Daily Banner (TN)
Section: Commentary
Copyright: 2001 Cleveland Daily Banner
Contact:  http://www.clevelandbanner.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/947

JUVENILES PROVIDED DRUG ABSTINENCE HELP

The Juvenile Alcohol and Drug Education Program was established in October 
1998, for the purpose of providing drug abstinence support to identified 
juveniles through the use of educational tools and other support mechanisms.

It was designed to attack the growing problem of alcohol and drug use and 
abuse among our children. Lisa Wiley, Youth Services officer for the 
Bradley County Juvenile Division, directs the program.

The concept of the JADE Program was initially presented to Dewayne 
Schriver, director of the Cleveland City School's Drug-Free Program. With 
his encouragement, an application for funding was submitted by Bradley 
County to the state of Tennessee Drug-Free and Safe Schools Program. A 
three-year grant was awarded in 1999 to serve both the city and county 
school systems. Local schools benefiting from the program include the Teen 
Learning Center, the Horizon School and the X-CEL Academy.

During the past school year, the JADE Program served approximately 162 
youth. Upon completing the program, these students showed improvements in 
school attendance, behavior and grade point average.

The JADE Program is a collaborative effort among several local agencies and 
provides its participants with basic alcohol and drug education. It is 
designed to enhance the resiliency skills these youth need in order to 
bounce back after an identified set back. The 12-week program meets once a 
week. Intensive efforts are made to educate not only the child but the 
parents as well. Parenting classes are offered and are facilitated by Linda 
Wells, a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor.

There are several components to the JADE Program. Initially, each child is 
given an alcohol and drug evaluation. From this evaluation, problems are 
identified and recommendations are made for treatment. Random drug screens 
are performed to ensure compliance. Test results are shared with the 
parents. If a child fails a drug screen, additional services are employed 
and a mentor may be assigned to work with the child and their family.

The JADE Program has proven to be a necessary and an invaluable service to 
our community. Wiley is currently looking for committed adults to serve as 
mentors. If you are interested in being a mentor or if you have questions 
about the program, you may contact her at 476-0522.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom