We hope that you, your school community and families are all safe and well. We commend you and your school district in meeting the needs of continuing your students’ education during the COVID-19 pandemic. An important part of their education, as you know, is substance use prevention education. Reports are beginning to show that there appears to be a higher risk for substance abuse due to the stresses resulting from the quarantine.

PDFNJ has successfully adapted all its programs to a virtual format. There are specific programs for middle schools that you can make available to your students and school community.

Middle School PSA Challenge (Entry Deadline May 22)

Your students can create a 30-second PSA script with a peer message about the dangers of substance abuse.  The winning script will be filmed, starring the student scriptwriters.  To support social distancing, the program has been adjusted to allow for individual entries.

Silver Linings Stories (Entry Deadline May 22)

Students in grades K-8 are invited to share their “Silver Lining” stories about something positive they have learned during the COVID-19 quarantine, such as a new healthy habit, a new fun family ritual, etc.  Five entries will be chosen to win a $100 Amazon gift card.

15 Minute Child Break (for Adults)

This presentation is available as either a live or recorded webinar which informs, encourages and empowers parents, grandparents, educators, coaches and other adult caregivers about how to communicate effectively with children about the misuse and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. The presentation includes important up-to-date statistics on drug and alcohol use and public service announcements that cover various types of drugs used by children.

Wishing you and your loved ones continued good health,
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ

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IN THE COMMUNITY:

"Child Break" Webinar

Register to host a virtual "Child Break", either as an interactive, 30 minute Zoom webinar or a prerecorded presentation.  A PDFNJ coordinator will reach out to assist you with sharing the event in your community. The "Child Break" webinar delivers informative, engaging, and educational information.