Franklin Co. Schools, Stayin Alive partner on tobacco initiative

Taking holistic approach to curb teen tobacco use

(BROOKVILLE, Ind.) – The non-profit Stayin’ Alive is partnering with Franklin County Schools to address teen tobacco and vaping use.

The program is called INDEPTH which stands for Intervention for Nicotine Dependence: Education, Prevention, Tobacco and Health.

The program takes an alternative approach compared to the traditional punitive measures for students who are caught violating school tobacco policies. 

It will focus on five initiatives which are: 

1. Confidential and Anonymous Participation: Students caught with tobacco or vaping products on their first offense will have the opportunity to participate in INDEPTH during an in-school suspension. Importantly, their responses and identities remain confidential and anonymous.

1. Data Collection for Prevention: By participating in INDEPTH, students contribute valuable data that will help the American Lung Association understand youth tobacco and vaping trends. This information will inform targeted prevention strategies to reduce tobacco use among young people.

1. Breaking Nicotine Dependency: Trained facilitators lead ten interactive sessions, each lasting 50 minutes. These sessions cover topics such as reasons for quitting, nicotine addiction, effects of smoking/vaping, stress management, and healthy alternatives. The program encourages voluntary behavior change and equips teens with life skills to maintain positive habits.

1. Proven Results: INDEPTH is evidence-based, with approximately 90% of participating teens cutting back or quitting tobacco altogether. Post-program, students also show improved academic performance, better relationships with teachers, and fewer school tobacco policy violations.

1. Referral to Quit Now Program: For students who are addicted and want to quit, INDEPTH provides referrals to the state sponsored Quit Now program. Here, they can work with counselors to overcome addiction and achieve lasting results.

As the program gains traction, Franklin County Schools hope to create a healthier, more supportive environment for their students. By prioritizing education, prevention, and confidentiality, they aim to empower teens to make informed choices and break free from nicotine dependency.

Visit Stayin’ Alive website on how to get involved by clicking here.