An Innovative Tobacco Prevention Program: Dancing Classrooms Pittsburgh

Audience:

Tobacco Prevention Specialists, Youth Providers

Key Points:

It is well know that low SES, poor academic performance, low self esteem and aggressive behavior are associated with youth tobacco use (CDC, 2011).   The internationally acclaimed Dancing Classrooms program, which targets transition age youth (e.g. 5^th/8^th grade),  was implemented during the 2009/10 & 2010/2011 school years with1130 students in 17 Pittsburgh inner city schools.  The program helps students develop respect, self-confidence, and be more motivated to higher learning.  School data for participating and control students were used to determine if participation improved school performance and behavior.  Absences, tardiness, citizenship and suspensions were not different between the groups (YR1 - due to group size), but the participating 5^th grade students had significantly improved grade point averages.  Grades also improved for students participating in the Dancing Classrooms when compared with control 5^th grade students in Social Science, Science and Math. Year two data analysis will be available for presentation at the time of this conference. 

 

Educational Experience:

Attendees will develop greater awareness of the utilization of the non- traditional approach of ball room dancing as a mechanism to increase protective factors and reduce risk for youth, living in high risk communities, transitioning to middle school.

 

Attendees will increase knowledge of community engagement strategies and non-traditional Prevention Partnerships designed to facilitate program success.

 

Attendees will gain a greater understanding of innovative approaches that impact cultural centricity and encourage appreciation of difference, civility and respect.

Benefits:

Increased protective factors, parental and community engagement.