School-Based Prevention Programs : A Comprehensive Strategy. Spotlight on Student Success. No. 113 / Roger P. Weissberg and Timothy P. Shriver.

Schools should build comprehensive programs that help children develop socially and emotionally. As a result, students will become competent in ways that can help them learn better and avoid problem behaviors. Comprehensive social and emotional development programs are based on the understanding that many different kinds of behaviors are caused by the same risk factors. Prevention programs are most effective when multiyear integrated efforts incorporate parent and community involvement. An ambitious prevention program has been in development for 6 years in New Haven (Connecticut). The program is for all students in kindergarten through grade 12, and it aims to promote social and emotional development. A curriculum was developed to provide classroom instruction targeting social development. School and community activities were then created to promote opportunities outside the classroom, and each school's mental health team worked to ensure the planning and implementation of programs. The project has reported reductions in problem behaviors and has been well received by students, teachers, and parents. The New Haven experience illustrates the importance of developmentally appropriate, integrated programs that address many aspects of student development. Student engagement and multilevel instruction are essential to an approach that supports full growth and development. (SLD)

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