Since 2005, FLORIDA’S KIDS & ALCOHOL has addressed the issue of underage drinking in the state of Florida. The town hall series provides an in-depth discussion with parents, teachers, officials, and youth on the harmful effects. Designed to increase community awareness, the yearly discussion includes ideas for preventing youth from using alcohol. Florida’s Kids & Alcohol Town Hall 2013 took place on March 21 at The Palladium.

Visit the LiveFree! website for more information about the panelists and photos from the event.

Watch the Florida’s Kids and Alcohol: Town Hall 2013

Watch Florida’s Kids & Alcohol: Town Hall 2013 on PBS. See more from WEDU Specials.

 

Watch the Florida’s Kids and Alcohol: Webcast 2013

 

The Statistics

Community discussions and prevention tactics are making a difference in our community. According to the 2012 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey, substance abuse among middle and high school students has decreased since 2010*:

  • Alcohol use decreased 24% for high school students & 36% for middle school students.
  • Binge drinking decreased 42% for high school students & 63% for middle school students.
  • Prescription pain reliever use decreased 68% for high school students & 70% for middle school students.
  • Marijuana use decreased 13% for high school students & 31% for middle school students.
*Statistics are for Pinellas County middle and high school students. Past 30 day usage was reported.

 

Video Resources

Videos from last year are available on the WEDU Video Portal:
2012 Florida’s Kids and Alcohol Town Hall Meeting
2012 Florida’s Kids and Alcohol Webcast

The 2013 Florida’s Kids and Alcohol Town Hall Meeting is part of WEDU’s American Graduate Initiative, helping our students stay drug free and graduate from school.

 

Sponsored by:

& The Bernard F. and Mary Ann Powell Foundation

Other Resources: