Lifeways – Elementary School Prevention
Two years ago, three 2nd grade students were referred to me to receive prevention education related to vaping. They each completed 4 sessions of prevention education with me. Recently, the following situation occurred: upon entering a 4th grade classroom a student approached me and asked, “Aren’t you the one who taught me about not vaping?” I recognized the student and confirmed that I had spent time with him discussing the dangers of vaping. The student then proceeded to tell me that he had not tried to vape again but that he had a cousin who was vaping. I encouraged the student to share what he had learned with his cousin so they could make a decision to stop and live a healthier lifestyle. The student said, “OK” and off he went. A few weeks later, the same student approached me again and stated he wanted to tell me what happened with his cousin. The student proceeded to tell me that he had shared with his cousin what he had learned about vaping and his cousin decided to quit vaping. I told the student how happy I was to hear that, and I noticed he seemed very proud. This interaction not only filled me with pride because the student had been bold enough to share with his cousin the dangers of vaping and impacting their life in a positive way, but it also reminded me of the importance of the work I do day in and day out. What we do matters and it is impacting the youth in our community.