Pubdate: Tue, 07 May 2002
Source: Blade, The (OH)
Copyright: 2002 The Blade
Contact:  http://www.toledoblade.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/48
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?135 (Drug Education)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

PILOT PROGRAM TO TARGET DRUG PREVENTION

Pupils at Stewart Elementary School this fall will take part in a pilot 
program for Toledo Public Schools that aims to bring a holistic approach to 
preventing drug, alcohol, and tobacco abuse.

Rather than simply providing information about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, 
the LifeSkills Training program, which is used in 3,000 schools across the 
nation, attempts to get at more comprehensive issues to reduce high-risk 
behavior.

"Drug use is not a cognitive issue alone. It's a social and emotional 
issue," said Dr. Celia Williamson, an assistant professor of social work at 
the University of Toledo whose students helped propose the program for the 
elementary school. The program teaches self-management skills and general 
social skills.

The central-city elementary was targeted for the program because it is one 
of the few in the district that does not already have a drug prevention 
program. The three-year program would begin with either third or 
fourth-graders, Dr. Williamson said.

"I am remarkably excited about it," said Principal Debra Weaver. "By not 
giving them information, we are leaving a hole for them to experiment."

The hope is to bring the program, developed by a Cornell University 
professor, to other schools in the district if it proves successful, Dr. 
Williamson said. The cost is estimated at $5,600, and more than half of 
that will come from the Toledo Youth Commission. The rest will come from 
city council or private fund-raising, Toledo Councilman Michael Ashford said.
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager