Sanford Middle School organized a series of informative panels to educate students about the dangers of vaping throughout the week in the cafeteria.
Outreach Worker Cecilia Siriani and 8th Grade School Counselor Angela Avery did much of the leg work to put on the panels.
Sanford Middle School offered two to three sessions most mornings, ensuring that all students had the opportunity to attend. These sessions lasted approximately 30 to 40 minutes, allowing time for panelists to present information and engage with the students.
It provided a platform for students to gain insights into the dangers of vaping from various perspectives, emphasizing the importance of making informed choices.
Students were encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts related to the topic.
By actively engaging with the panelists and their peers, students gained a deeper understanding of the risks associated with vaping. The panelists made it a priority to offer a safe space for students to seek guidance, ask for help, or share their concerns.
By providing this supportive environment, the school aimed to empower students to make positive choices and take control of their well-being.
Panelists included Substance Use Counselor Susan Lombardo, Counselor Vickie Thomas, Counselor Colleen Quartararo, Social Worker Brent Coleman, School Resource Officer Joe Jourdain, SMS School Nurse Katie Gray, Band Teacher Erica Scarano, and Teacher Keith Gendron.
In addition to school staff, Sanford YMCA Youth and Family Service Director Matt Ouellette, and Carley Mejia and Haley Wood from Southern Maine Health Care participated in the panels.
Wood is part of Southern Maine Health Care’s Community Health Improvement team that has worked with both the middle school and the high school. Together, they have planned events for Red Ribbon Week, which is a national campaign that supports creating drug-free communities.