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Francis Marion
Intermediate |
Families and Schools Together
Student Services Page | FMI Home Page
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Francis Marion
Intermediate |
Families and Schools Together
Student Services Page | FMI Home Page
The Marion Independent School District has implemented the FAST (Families and Schools Together) program for the fifth consecutive school year since1995-96. FAST is a nationally recognized program developed to enhance family functioning and prevent certain problems in families, including substance abuse. Vernon Middle School initiated the program, and Emerson began in 97. Starry began their program in 98 and FMI in 2000. At each of the buildings, the program consists of 8 evening sessions once each week from 5:30 - 8:00p.m. Eight to ten families have been targeted in each building.Application forms are available at each building on registration days and at open house events. Some families participating in the program volunteered their involvement; others were recruited based on faculty recommendations.The idea is that FAST is a program which could benefit any and all families.Therefore, we wish to avoid labeling the program as one for "dysfunctional families" or "at risk" students.
The 8-10 families work with a FAST "team" which consists of teachers, a parent, a substance abuse prevention specialist from the Area Substance Abuse Council and a mental health counselor from Family Service Agency - both of Cedar Rapids. Several teachers are involved in each building, as well as principals, guidance counselors, the school social worker and the MISD family resource specialist. The teams receive 12 hours of training over the summer provided by the Grantwood Area Education Agency.
The FAST programs already appear to be successful at each building. Families and teams have enjoyed the evening sessions and all are working to make this a program that will benefit many families within the district in years to come.
If you have questions about the FAST programs or need further information, please contact Michelle Wilson, MISD K-12 Family Resource Specialist, at Vernon Middle School @ 377-9401.