State-funded initiative offers evidence-based curriculum, implementation stipends and teacher training at no cost to districts.
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma middle and high schools still have an opportunity to apply to participate in a statewide opioid prevention initiative that provides an evidence-based classroom curriculum, teacher training and implementation stipends at no cost to districts.
The program, known as Oklahoma READY — Resilience, Education, Awareness, Decision-Making for Youth — uses the nationally recognized Botvin LifeSkills Training curriculum to help students build decision-making, communication and coping skills while teaching strategies to resist opioids, unauthorized prescription medications and other substances.
Schools selected to participate will receive stipends to support implementation of the program. Facilitator training sessions are scheduled for July 23 in Oklahoma City and Aug. 3 in Tulsa. Schools interested in participating are encouraged to apply soon so teachers can attend one of the upcoming training sessions.
The initiative is funded through Oklahoma’s Opioid Abatement Revolving Fund, which receives the state’s share of national settlements with opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies. The Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board awards grants for prevention, treatment and recovery programs designed to reduce the impact of opioid addiction.
Schools and districts interested in participating can learn more about the Oklahoma READY program and submit an application at oklahoma.gov/oag/okready.
