|
The Listening Post at Barker Road and Calkins Road Middle Schools is another unique program that PYS, in conjunction with PCSD and the Pittsford Senior Center, utilizes intergenerational relationships to reach youth at critical times in their growth and development. The Listening Post began at the middle school in the fall of 2004. It brings trained volunteer senior citizens into the school to work with sixth, seventh and eigth grade students on projects designed to promote asset development.
The students look forward to time talking with their “senior” friends. The Listening Post provides a safe, nurturing environment for the students to share their thoughts and concerns while doing a new asset building craft activity each week. The volunteers also fill the role of being additional positive role models for the students they work with.
The Here and Now program is an educational and counseling intervention program focusing on alcohol and other drug issues. Typical referrals include students who have violated the athlete’s code of ethics, or students who have been suspended from school for alcohol or other drug activity. This program is often the first contact a young person has with a professional knowledgeable about the health, addiction and safety concerns related to experimental or regular substance use. Working together, the PYS social worker is able to educate and help the youth examine potential consequences and find positive alternatives.
PYS staff members who facilitate the program are licensed social workers/certified alcohol substance abuse counselors. Referral for further evaluation and treatment can be expedited on behalf of the student if necessary. Parents are also offered the opportunity to participate to learn more about any concerns and follow-up that might be needed.
This program is targeted towards those students who have been given Saturday morning detention at either high school. As an alternative to sitting in the detention room, students may opt to meet with a PYS licensed professional. Students participating in the program establish goals with the PYS staff that address the issues that gave rise to the detention. At subsequent meetings, the PYS professional and the student discuss progress made towards the goals and any other concerns the student might have.
|