Student Services Departments Provide Support to Enhance Well Being
Glenbrook High School District 225 has voluntarily participated in the Illinois Youth Survey since 2008 that is offered every other year, in an effort to gain a better understanding of students’ needs so that it can take proactive steps to address any issues. The same survey is administered in many districts throughout the state as a way to help communities identify risk behaviors such as consumption of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. The insights gained from this type of data helps communities better address the needs of their youth.
“It is essential that schools and parents partner to help ensure students’ well being,” said Superintendent Dr. Mike Riggle. “Sharing these results with our community is an important step in working together to address these issues.”
At a prior board meeting, the administration presented the survey results and offered a summary of the student services program to the Board of Education.
Summary of survey results:
● 10th and 12th grade students participated in this survey. They self-reported their use, access and perceived parental feelings relative to various illicit substances.
● When it comes to engaging in these risk behaviors, District 225 students tend to be slightly under or in line with regional averages. Data shows that these challenges are faced by communities across the region.
● Overall, student reported use is well below their reported access to illicit substances.
● Student who report use of illicit substances primarily engage in small-scale experimentation as opposed to frequent use.
● Less than five percent of students reported using other drugs such as inhalants, LSD, heroin, cocaine, and prescription drugs in the past year.
● A large percentage of students perceive their parents as disapproving of drug, alcohol and tobacco use.
● Tobacco use among District 225 remains well below regional averages. More than 95% of students reported not smoking at all in 10th grade and between 84% and 87% reported not smoking at all in 12th grade.
● Generally, the number of students engaging in risk behaviors increases from 10th grade to 12th grade. A number of factors may contribute to this rise, most notably increased access due to the ability to drive and friendships with college-aged students.
“While our students receive the benefit of attending an academically rigorous high school, we recognize that young adults experience a wide range of social and emotional factors that impact their academic performance,” said Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Dr. Rosanne Williamson. “At District 225, we offer a comprehensive support system through our student services departments that helps support students in their pursuit of success.”
The high school student services departments offer multi-tiered supports that range in degree, intensity and frequency depending on the needs of students. The student population as a whole benefits from programs such as academic counseling and guidance, curricular offerings, student activities and clubs, school rules, social norms, workshops and support staff who can assist with issues that arise. Students who need additional assistance are identified for more targeted support such small group counseling, classroom skill development, social work, health services, and other types of services. Finally, the Glenbrooks are proud to provide high-quality alternatives to traditional learning such as special education services and programs, and an evening high school.
“Our broad range of academic, social and emotional offerings are targeted to provide students with the best opportunity to be successful,” said Riggle.
Student Services Report and Illinois Youth Survey