At Central, we are committed to our students’ health and well-being in all ways. Last week, we had programs highlighting important issues affecting many people of all communities and backgrounds. On Tuesday, sophomores and juniors had the opportunity to participate in a program with the organization “Communities Confronting Substance Use & Addiction” (CCSA) to learn about the important topic of substance abuse.
The presentations and discussions focused on explaining what substance abuse and addiction are, how teenage brains are wired, and how introducing substances affects development of the brain. Also discussed were risk factors and how a student can seek help for themselves or for a friend by turning to a safety net of parents, teachers, guidance counselors, rabbis, and other adults. Sophomore Meirah Leban of West Hempstead said, “I thought the program was really informative, and gave me great insight into the effects of drugs and substance abuse. It was really powerful to learn what you can do to prevent it, and how to help someone. It gave me a sense of accomplishment knowing that I can make better choices if I ever have to.”
On Thursday, Central participated in Shalom Task Force’s “Go Purple” Day, a day to promote awareness of healthy relationships and to educate high school students about domestic abuse. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors participated in discussions led by Shalom Task Force staff members about the importance of boundaries, learning how to set boundaries in everyday relationships, and gaining tools to be a supportive friend. Junior Danielle Abelson of Cedarhurst, and Junior Daniella Orenbuch and Senior Goldie Tuckman of West Hempstead also spent last week raising awareness and funds for Shalom Task Force, with Danielle saying, “This year’s purple day was a huge success, ranging from the astounding guest speakers, to the donations, to wearing purple in support of all domestic abuse victims.”
Thank you to our Director of Guidance, Mrs. Danielle Wyner, for organizing these incredibly important and informative events.