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35th AM (2025) - Poster Session
Changes in Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions a ...
Changes in Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions about Substance Use among Upper Elementary School Students...
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This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Emily’s Hope substance use prevention curriculum piloted in 4th and 5th grade students across Midwest schools during the 2023-2024 school year. Substance use during critical brain development phases can lead to long-term health issues and increased risk of substance use disorders. Since many children encounter substances by middle school, early educational interventions are crucial.<br /><br />Emily’s Hope is an evidence-based, age-appropriate curriculum designed by a multidisciplinary committee to address risks and protective factors related to substance use through engaging and culturally relevant lessons. It builds on previous successful implementation with 3rd graders.<br /><br />The pilot involved 514 students from 16 school districts in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Pre- and post-curriculum surveys assessed knowledge of body systems, the nervous system, effects of substances, brain recovery, and health advocacy. Results showed significant knowledge improvements: 4th graders improved by 8.6%, 5th graders by 7.6%, with particular gains in understanding body systems, drug dangers such as fentanyl, cause-effect reasoning, and medication safety.<br /><br />The program demonstrated positive shifts in attitudes and perceptions regarding substance use, reinforcing health promotion in young students. The curriculum's broad implementation across diverse rural and urban settings and successful completion by educators indicate its feasibility and effectiveness.<br /><br />Future directions include curriculum expansion to five states in the 2024-2025 school year, including the introduction to an elementary school in Uganda. The Emily’s Hope committee plans to further develop materials suitable for middle and high school students.<br /><br />Overall, the study supports that well-designed, age-appropriate substance use prevention programs in upper elementary schools can enhance students’ knowledge and attitudes, potentially mitigating substance use risks during adolescence and promoting lifelong health.
Keywords
Emily’s Hope
substance use prevention
4th and 5th grade
Midwest schools
brain development
evidence-based curriculum
pilot study
knowledge improvement
health advocacy
curriculum expansion
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