The first step toward developing a drug-free school is to assess the current status of the school with respect to student alcohol, tobacco, and drug use and attitudes. Until recently, this has been an expensive process, feasible only for larger schools. The Institute for the Prevention of Addictions, has used comprehensive needs assessment surveys to study the prevalence and correlates of Adventist youth in North America, Inter-America, and Africa, as well as provide contract assessment services to local public school systems.
The survey contains questions validated on national surveys. Special question features include inquiries into attitudes, practices, and other factors predictive of risk. Somewhat unique are measurements which identify protective factors. Completed surveys are optically scanned and computer analyzed assuring student anonymity.
The needs assessment service includes a full report, with data tabulations and graphs, presented to the contracting school. Schools may use the results to educate staff, the student body, and parents about the actual situation present at the time of the survey. Important insights into how students think about chemical substances will be gained.
The service costs $1.50 US per student survey processed plus $500 US for preparation of a written report. If Institute staff make a personal presentation to the school community, travel expenses will be additional costs.
For detailed order information contact...
Institute for Prevention of Addictions
8408 Westwood Drive
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI 49104-0211
Internet E-mail: ipa@andrews.edu
Phone: (616) 471-3558
Fax: (616) 471-6611
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