debuted last year for families whose children may be at risk for binge
drinking or other substance abuse problems, will offer another series
of classes this fall. The first class begins at East Mecklenburg High
School (6800 Monroe Road) on Sept. 17.
Families who are interested should contact Shirnell Addison, program
secretary, at 980-343-2612 for specific meeting times and to reserve a
space in the group. Students do not need to attend East Meck in order
to participate, but families must pre-enroll by Tuesday, Sept. 15, in
order to participate. The program will also be offered at four other
CMS high schools this fall. Each location will hold a series of four
weekly meetings.
Developed by the school district's High Risk Alcohol Abuse Prevention
Program, Family Nights provides free classes to help families develop
healthy habits and increase positive interaction. To qualify for
participation, families must have at least one child enrolled in
public, charter or private high school in Mecklenburg County. The
program is funded with federal money.
"The data we collected from last year's session shows that parents
feel more confident in their parenting skills after participating in
the class," said Danielle Doskocil, who is the program coordinator.
Family Nights will provide dinner and gift-card incentives for
participating families and child care and/or tutoring services for
younger siblings who attend. The program will also engage parents and
students in activities related to developing positive behaviors,
critical- and creative-thinking skills, goal setting, and the
importance of investing in family life. Follow-up services will also
be provided to the families who participate.
Additional classes will be held this fall at Turning Point Academy and
at North Mecklenburg, Hawthorne and Myers Park high schools, and other
locations are being planned for the spring. For additional information
on the program, please contact Doskocil at 980-343-2610.
