HIV prevention class to start for Teens age 12-18

Through the state of Idaho STD/HIV Prevention program, Students for Success will begin a pilot eight-session HIV prevention class for teenagers on Saturdays starting January 31. Two classes will be offered at the same time in Lapwai and Kamiah.

The AStreet Smart: Reducing HIV Risk@ curriculum will be used. It was designed at the University of California, Los Angeles, Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services (UCLA/CHIPTS) It was first tested among homeless and runaway youth.

The Street Smart program is highly recommended since it is research-based and is adaptable to diverse populations.

This was an especially important consideration for Students for Success since they serve American Indian youth living on a rural reservation.

Since one-in-four new HIV infections in the U.S. are among youth under 19, the need for early prevention is critical even in our small communities.

The core elements of the Street Smart program target reduction of HIV risk by:

1) Enhancing awareness, expression and control of emotions and knowledge related to HIV and HIV risk behaviors.

2) Teaching about HIV risk behaviors, that results in high, medium, and low risk, and how they relate to the participants' personal behavior.

3) Identifying the "triggers" (situations) that raise the possibility of risk-taking by using peer support and small group skills building sessions.

4) Building skills in problem solving, personal assertiveness, and HIV/AIDS harm reduction.

The Street Smart classes is designed to get the youth involved in active learning and personal awareness.

Following the intervention, the youth who participated reported a reduction in substance use and the amount of unprotected sex, especially the female participants.

To prepare to teach the class, Students for Success staff and consultants completed a three-day intensive training in November 2003.

Jean Ann Moose and Irene Kipp will teach the class in Kamiah on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Students for Success office at the Wa-A=Yas Community Center. Transportation arrangements will be made for youth in Kooskia and Orofino.

Joyce McFarland and Agnes Weaskus will lead the class in Lapwai on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon. at a site to be announced.

The youth will be given a $5 Walmart gift card for attending each class. The would be a total amount of $40. Refreshments and beverages will be served at each class. There is no cost to participate.

To enroll in the class, contact Students for Success at 843-7303 or 935-4110. Youth will be asked to complete an application for Nez Perce Youth Leadership. A parent or guardian consent form will also be required.