Harford County Pledge Program

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

As Harford County continues to make efforts in combating the opioid crisis, countless families in the community are faced with the question, “How early should I have a conversation with my child about drugs?” Due to the early age of drug experimentation in today’s youth, a major effort for Harford County Government is to provide young people with education surrounding drugs and substance use. While these topics are covered in middle school and high school health class curriculum, there is very little education at the elementary level. Recognizing that earlier intervention would provide important foundation building drug education, the Harford County Government, in partnership with the Harford County Sherriff’s Office, has developed and implemented a new drug awareness program geared toward elementary school students in Harford County. The Pledge Program was created for youth between the ages of 8-11 years old with the goal of educating children before they are exposed to substances and supplying them with the appropriate education to build a foundational awareness and knowledge to resist drugs and alcohol. Rather than relying on traditional teaching strategies, the program utilizes a more interactive approach. Sessions incorporate guest speakers, including a doctor, an individual in recovery, and a parent who has lost a child to drug use. Students have the opportunity to participate in role play scenarios with local high school theater students to learn about peer pressure and practice refusal skills. Another important component of the Pledge Program is the participation of parents and guardians. Talking with a child about the dangers of substance use is a key component to shaping children’s attitudes and behaviors. Adults in the home are provided topics to discuss with youth in order to continue the conversation outside of the training and initiate important talks between family members. Since its inception in January 2019, the Pledge Program has partnered with five Harford County elementary schools with a total of 153 participants in the program. Each participant has received training and information that help expand their understanding of drugs and drug use in order to make positive and healthy choices in the future.