SADD program undergoing a revival at CHS

With enthusiasm, innovation, and seed money from the Canton Alliance for Public Education, Canton High School students are saying “Yes” to the revival of the local chapter of SADD (Students against Destructive Decisions).

The mission of SADD is to provide students with the best prevention tools possible to deal with the issues of underage drinking, other drug use, impaired driving, and other destructive decisions.

SADD Co-Advisor Janet Donnelly

Canton Public Schools’ Nurse Leader and co-advisor Janet Donnelly applied for the grant because she recognized the influence SADD has had in preventing destructive behaviors.

“We want to get the message out there and repeat it often,” Donnelly said.

Through an effective peer-to-peer education program, including role modeling and thought-provoking activities, SADD members are committed to promoting the organization and its goals.

Co-advisor Peter Boucher, Canton’s K-12 wellness coordinator, “wants to empower our students to encourage each other to be safe and smart regarding any difficult decisions.”

On April 7, as part of SADD’s ongoing focus, actor John Morello will present an original play, I am Dirt, which will address the fundamental reasons for substance abuse, such as self esteem, depression, and a desire to create order out of chaos. There are two performances, one for students and the other for parents, who are mandated to attend if their children plan to go to the sophomore semi-formal, the junior prom, or the senior prom.

“The purpose of the mandate is to increase parental awareness. If parents get the message, they’ll pass it along,” said Donnelly.

During the evening, SADD will showcase its activities, such as collaboration with Boomerang students and the scheduling of guest speakers, as well as its concerns — the difficulties involved in transitioning to the high school. Also available will be the Contract for Life, which provides an important foundation for trust between a student and a caring adult who exchange mutual promises to facilitate communication and promote safety.

“Positive parenting is important, and a Contract for Life allows for dialogue between parents and their children,” said Donnelly. “Communication is the lifeline in terms of the path your child follows.”

Vicky Tondre, president of the CHS chapter, has a specific objective to achieve: “My personal goal for SADD this year is to visit the Galvin Middle School and do different activities with the kids, and help them prepare for the pressures that come along in high school.”

Red Ribbon Week, held in late October, encouraged students to take a stand against drugs and commit to creating a drug-free America. Wearing red t-shirts and distributing bright red brochures, SADD members emphasized their basic belief: “The decisions we make decide the future we’ll create.”

The group also targeted safety issues for new drivers with the sale of the “Wear It Because You are Loved” seatbelt pouches.

“It’s important for the community to know that we have lots of great kids who don’t succumb to social pressures,” said Donnelly, who is working to bring back innovative and creative ideas utilized in the past and integrate them with current techniques aimed at prevention.

SADD is seeking additional students to spread the word on keeping Canton kids safe.

“It is a great place to meet people whom you never thought you’d meet,” said Tondre, “a place you will always feel comfortable being who you are.”

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Posted by Ruth Weiner on Mar 17 2011. Filed under News, Schools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.