Programs and Services
News and Updates about the Safe Schools Healthy Students Initiative.
Programs, Services and Curriculum
The SS/HS Initiative promote mental health and prevent violence in youth by using evidence-based programs with demonstrated long-term positive effects. Local programs include:
Positive behavioral Support (PBS): Training and coaching will be provided to 32 schools to improve school climate and academic outcomes.
Project Success/Crossroad: Six (6) Counselors will provide services to high-risk students in high schools to prevent/reduce substance abuse and reduce truancy.
Project Alert: Substance abuse prevention classes will be provided for students in 24 middle schools.
Epstein Family Engagement Model: Seven (7) Family Liasion Specialists will provide training, coordination and coaching in parent and community involvement strategies in 14 schools each year.
Parents as Teachers/Nurtured Heart: APS and City of Albuquerque will facilitate training to early childhood staff to increase evidenced-based home visitation services.
ACTIVITIES COMING UP
- School wide training of staff and parents in bullying prevention
- Training of SROs
- Youth driven social marketing campaigns
- Community wide collaboration activities
West Mesa High School Mural Project
One SS/HS goal is to expand free, non-traditional after-school activities to all high schools.
Students participating in the first pilot focusing on mural art and breakdance at West Mesa High School are saying:
“This program has given me a reason to go to school”
“This program is teaching us how to use graffiti in a good art way and not to do it on walls”
“This program has made me motivated in my classes and keeps on improving my attitude towards life”
“This program has made a positive impact on my grades, attendance and also my confidence”
“This program keeps our mind occupied and isolated from trouble”
“SS/HS is providing activities for students that relate to their lives – we have never had that before” - Marsha Bankston, Dean, West Mesa High School