This substance abuse prevention and treatment program is designed to target the needs of middle school students. Housed at Kennedy Middle School, the program is a collaboration of Catholic Charities, Albuquerque Public Schools and the City of Albuquerque.
The program was established to identify and treat students who are experiencing behavioral, academic and family problems related to alcohol and substance abuse in the home. Participants are referred to the program by school personnel. Catholic charities’ staff are members of the Mental Health Team at the school which is comprised of the school psychologist and other key personnel. Each case is reviewed for appropriateness for the program.
The Alpha program staff use creative approaches to help students reach their goals. For example, each year, program participants work with an art therapist to produce expressive works of art which are presented to their community during a special event to honor each student’s growth and creativity.
During the summer months, a “bridge” program is conducted to introduce incoming 6th graders to the middle school environment. Students are involved with social and educational activities in the community that expose them to different experiences. Friendships are formed and students develop relationships with staff which provide a familiarity and sense of safety as they begin the school year in a new environment.