Prevention starts with creating a school where students can learn, grow and feel supported.
Prevention isn't just a program, presentation or special event. It's the everyday work of creating a positive school environment and giving students the knowledge, skills and support they need to make healthy choices.
What does prevention look like in a school?
Prevention can be part of many areas of school life. It can include:
- Building positive relationships with students
- Creating a safe and supportive school environment
- Teaching healthy decision-making and coping skills
- Encouraging students to ask for help when they need it
- Connecting students and families with resources
- Responding early when concerns arise
- Providing consistent messages and expectations
Prevention happens every day.
A school doesn't have to do everything at once. Small, consistent actions can help create a school culture where students feel connected, know where to turn and have trusted adults they can talk to.
Prevention can happen in the classroom, in the hallways, at activities and events, and through everyday conversations with students and families.
The goal isn't to add more to your school's plate. It's to build prevention into the work you're already doing.
Start where you are
There are many ways to bring prevention into your school. Choose an area that fits your school's needs and build from there.