West Greene School District

Botvin LifeSkills Training is a research-validated substance abuse prevention program proven to reduce the risks of alcohol, tobacco, drug abuse, and violence by  targeting factors that lead to substance abuse and other risky behaviors.  This program provides students with the confidence and skills necessary to successfully handle challenging situations.  The lessons promote healthy alternatives to risky behavior through activities designed to teach students resiliency skills, including resisting peer pressure, developing self-esteem and confidence, and coping with anxiety.  The Botvin program is currently being taught in the third grade classrooms by Ms. Melissa Berry, elementary school counselor.  Berry will be implementing this program in the fourth and fifth grade classrooms later in the school year.   The program is sponsored at West Greene by Mark and Jessie Leidecker, owners of JESMAR Energy.