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School-Based Primary Prevention: A Key to Combating the Opioid Epidemic


This video series was created in accordance with Act 55 of 2017 that updated the section of the Pennsylvania public school code that addresses how districts and intermediate units address educational opportunities focused on alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs by requiring each entity to:

  • Include instruction related to the prevention of opioid misuse to students in grades 6-12, with an emphasis on the prescription drug epidemic and the connection between prescription opioid misuse and addiction to other drugs, including heroin.
  • Provide a professional development program that includes information necessary to prepare for the teaching of this yearly mandated instruction.
  • Ensure that education professionals who complete the professional development program may apply this training to their continuing education requirements.

*This video series is available to complete on the PA Department of Education Standards Aligned System (SAS) in order to receive Act 48 credits.


Video Series Overview

While viewing this series, you will receive a comprehensive overview of the opioid epidemic and the role primary prevention plays in combatting the epidemic.

Series Introduction
Learn about the video series, navigation, and how to get ACT 48 credits.

Module One:  The Real Truths of the Opioid Epidemic
Learn about truths of the epidemic and the future forecast of the issue

Module Two:  Primary Prevention - The Big Picture
Explore the foundations of prevention science and the elements of a primary prevention landscape

Module Three:  Essential Elements of Programs That Work
Learn about the essential elements of proven-effective prevention programs that focus to reduce many antisocial youth behaviors

Module Four:  How to Incorporate Primary Prevention into the School Environment
Explore the benefits of incorporating prevention into the school environment, how to gain stakeholder buy-in, and ways to increase engagement

Module Five:  What You Can Do to Help
Learn more about tools to assist those experiencing or who have those close to them experiencing a substance-use disorder


Watch full playlist straight through on YouTube.