Submitted by Kristen Levesque, Principal at Maranacook Community Middle School
Healthy Decisions Day is an annual event at Maranacook Community Middle School, that is organized by the school counselor, Gwen Mohlar, with support from other staff. It started as a way to help educate students about making healthy decisions (especially about drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure) when growing up. This year the event was held on February 1st.
Students have opportunity to see a keynote speaker, go into grade level programs then pick 3 sessions under the themes below. It was a very informational day.
- Effects of Substances on the Brain/ Body: Presenter focused on how the brain and body are affected by many or different types of substances.
- Refusal Skills: Presenters focused on how students’ futures can be effected and the decision making skills students can use/ learn to remain substance free.
- Healthy Coping Skills: Presentations focused on healthy alternatives to substance misuse. These techniques can be used by many and is a great way to introduce different, healthy stress relief techniques to students.
Below are photos from the day:
keynote speaker, Jon Barker
Students
Students
Teacher- Jorgeanne Barley leading a session