Middle school is a time of big change for youth: academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. These changes make adolescents in this age group particularly vulnerable to the kinds of social and psychological factors that can lead to the initiation of substance use and other risky behaviors. LifeSkills Training (LST) is a school-based program that aims to prevent alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use and violence through a proactive approach that promotes open communication and awareness. 

Over 135 students in two school districts participated in this evidence-based program in Skamania County during the 2020-21 school year, thanks to several community partners. Riley Hershberger, Student Assistant Professional, facilitates the LifeSkills program at Wind River Middle School to all in-person and remote 7th and 8th graders. Ellie McDonald, Care Coordinator for Skamania County Community Health, facilitates the LifeSkills program at Skamania School for 6th through 8th graders, and she will be facilitating the program for Mill A middle school students in the fall.

LST is based on both the social influence and competence enhancement models of prevention. The training addresses multiple risk and protective factors and teaches personal and social skills that build resilience and help youth navigate developmental tasks, including the skills necessary to understand and resist pro-drug influences. LST is designed to provide information relevant to the important life transitions that adolescents and young teens face, using culturally sensitive and developmentally and age-appropriate language and content. Facilitated discussion, structured small group activities, and role-playing scenarios are used to stimulate participation and promote the acquisition of skills.

“The Life Skills program teaches many valuable lessons for students to live happy and healthy lives,” says McDonald. “It has helped to promote open communication, strengthen relationships, and increase awareness of available supports in the community.” 

The program also provides youth with the opportunity to form meaningful connections with other students and the adult facilitators. “With its consistent weekly schedule, the LifeSkills program allows me to make more connections with each and every student,” says Hershberger. “It’s great for the students to be able to see a familiar face for multiple weeks, and also to have someone they can ask personal questions to that they might not feel as comfortable asking a teacher.”