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High School Programs

High School Programs
 

Internet Safety and Cyber Bullying
Internet, email, websites, chat rooms, and even text messaging are all new avenues through which high school students are now harassing each other and compromising their safety. This program includes small and large group discussions about the impact of students' decisions on the Internet. Short video clips showing the true stories of two victims of Internet predators are also used to illustrate safety hazards online. Students will be informed of the legal and social consequences of their actions. They will discuss the severe impact of harassment on the victim and some healthy and unhealthy ways students attempt to cope with their problems.

 

Sexual Harassment
This program brings audience participants together to explore and understand the causes, consequences and effects of sexual harassment. It also helps teenagers to identify any sexual harassment problems that may currently exist, as well as provide resources to prevent future problems and promote positive change. The students will participate in a Myth/Fact activity which offers a safe, supervised way for students to discover their feelings and examine their own attitudes and behaviors, while also receiving answers to commonly asked questions. Discussions through this program provide an opportunity for students to assess certain situations as well as brainstorm possible solutions.

 

Acquaintance Rape
Many teenagers learn dating and relationship behaviors at this age and receive misinformation that puts them at risk for either becoming a victim or perpetrator of sexual violence. This program strives to approach the sensitive issue of acquaintance rape by providing factual information and incorporating appropriate answers to student questions. Audience participants are encouraged to consider how issues such as peer pressure, drug and alcohol use, and communication can be factors in an acquaintance rape situation. Risk reduction strategies are stressed. A brief video clip, victim impact activity, and decision-making exercises are incorporated. In closing, options and resources for both the victim and involved friends are reviewed.

 

Respectful Relationships- Dating Violence *UPDATED FOR 2008/2009*
At a time in their lives when relationships are beginning to change, students are asked to consider what qualities are important to them in personal relationships. Using these responses, students will brainstorm qualities of healthy and unhealthy relationships.  Students will watch the video, "Choose Respect: Causing Pain," which consists of interview with victims of relationship abuse.  The cycle of violence, abuse and the role of bystanders are emphasized.  Audience participants are encouraged to share opinions on how teens issues such as peer pressure, individual rights/boundaries, and drug/alcohol use can affect a dating relationship of friendship.  In closing, options and resources for both the victim and involved friends are reviewed.

 
 
The Link: Drugs, Alcohol, and Sexual Violence *UPDATED FOR 2008/2009*
This two-session program discusses the correlation between drug and alcohol use and an increased risk of sexual violence. In the first session, students will learn about sexual violence, drug and alcohol use, and resources for help with problems associated with each issue.  Small group brainstorming on realistic refusal skills and ways to get out of unsafe situations are discussed among the participants. In a simulated party atmosphere, the adolescents in this program use Drunk Busters Impairment Goggles to actually experience the difficulty in getting away from unsafe situations or dangerous people while under the influence of alcohol. This session concludes with the video, "Be Aware of the Risks of Date Rape Drugs," which discusses strategies to reduce the risk of sexual violence.
During the second session, students will continue to discuss resources for coping with these issues, as well as how to assist a friend in need.  A role-play activity and small-group work are used for students to find the best ways to help a friend who discloses abuse or a drug/alcohol problem.  Students identify resources both in and out of school that can help in the case of vicitimization or substance abuse.
*This program is best presented over two class periods, but can be combined into one period if necessary.  A program for parents is also available. 

Note: Program content and activities can vary depending on the available time period.
*Other program topics available upon request.

All programs encourage students to recognize their right to be safe and to share concerns or incidents of abuse with a trusted adult. Additionally, a trained PA Sexual Assault Counselor conducts all programs.
 

SCHEDULING GUIDELINES

6th through 12th GRADE PROGRAMS
 

 

Presentations should be scheduled in 1 period time slots.
 
*The Link: Drugs, Alcohol, and Sexual Violence is best presented over two class periods, but can be combined into one period if necessary.
 
Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, it is imperative that the presenter has ample time to address all topics.  Shortened presentations hinder discussion and do not adequately address the needs and/or concerns of the students.

Please be aware that for certain sessions, a TV/VCR or DVD player will be required.

If there is a scheduling conflict regarding use of A/V equipment, please notify us in advance so that we may change the program or the schedule.  Also, please make sure the equipment is functioning properly before our visit.       

Please do not plan to have more than one class in attendance per presentation.
 
We ask that you keep in mind the physical comfort of the students during the program.  If class sizes are large (larger than 30-35 students), it can quickly become unpleasant for everyone in an average size classroom.  Apart from the considerations of comfort, smaller groups are also more conducive to discussion.
 
Please do not schedule more than 5 programs in the same day.
 
We ask that you consider the physical limitations of the presenter when creating the schedule.  Because of the energy level and attentiveness that is required for safety programs, it is difficult to maintain a high level of quality when more than five (5) programs per presenter are scheduled in the same day.  We will be happy to return to the school for an additional day if necessary.

 
*We ask that there be a break for presenters to have lunch.
*Please allow ample time for the presenters to travel from one class to the next.
*Please support us in creating an opportunity for students to speak with the presenters after the program to discuss any personal issues or questions.

 Updated 5/6/2009

 

Please click here to read our Mandated Reporting/Confidentiality Guidelines.