Underclassman write letters with prom advice

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Tiffany Colburn
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
The Prom should be a night to remember. For this reason the 6th-8th grade students at Incirlik American High School have decided to write letters to their upper classmates warning them of the dangers associated with smoking, drinking, and doing drugs.

The students were provided the opportunity to write these letters in their Language Arts and Advisory classes. The idea was developed last year by the Incirlik High School Adolescent Substance Abuse Counselor, Carol Schubeck.

"I look for ways to educate students regarding the dangers of alcohol and drugs in ways to capture their interest and appeal," said Mrs. Schubeck. "As the ASAC, one of the most effective means of preventing teen substance abuse is family involvement with a teen's life and healthy role models."

The letters help the older students remember that they are role models.

"As high school students their behavior is an example for the middle school students. The concept engages young teens and teens in high school with the dangers of alcohol and other substances," said Mrs. Schubeck.

Another benefit of the program is getting students to discuss the effects of alcohol and the reasons why they shouldn't drink.

"If the topic is not talked about, teens might be tempted to go along with students who are drinking alcohol. Preventing substance abuse is not a one-time discussion, but frequent messages about the danger and consequences are vital," said the counselor.

The older students appreciated the caring words of concern and advice about prom night.

"I think it was sweet that the middle school students cared enough to write us letters. I think it probably made some of the high school students think and might have changed their outlook," said Rachael Ozan, Incirlik American School junior. "It feels good to know people care ... especially the young ones that look up to us."

Trinna Salviejo, a senior at IAS, said there's a tendency for older students to not heed the advice of younger students, but all advice is worth considering.

"Basically, listen to others who give advice regardless of what you already know," she said.