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The Marion Independent School District has implemented the FAST (Families and Schools Together) program for the eighth 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 began its program on 9-25-97. Emerson began on 9-23-97. Starry began their program on 1-6-98. At each of the buildings, the program consists of 8 evening sessions once each week from 5:00 - 8:00p.m.Eight to ten families have been targeted in each building.
Application forms were 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.
FAST at the middle school level is a relatively new concept.Vernon MiddleSchool will be a pilot program as it is the first of its kind outside the state of Wisconsin, where the program was developed. FAST programs are active in several Cedar Rapids schools and at Indian Creek Elementary School at Linn Mar.
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 counsel or from Family Service Agency - both of Cedar Rapids. Several teacher sare involved in each building as well as principals, guidance counselors,the school social worker andthe MISD family resource specialist.The Vernon program also includes a student. The teams received12 hours of training over the summer providedby the GrantwoodArea Education Agency.
The FAST programs already appear to be successful at Vernon,Emersonand Starry. Families and teams have enjoyed the eveningsessions and allare working to make this a program that will benefitmany families withinthe district in years to come. If you havequestions about the FAST programs or need further information,please contact Michelle Wilson, MISD K-12 Family Resource Specialist,at Vernon Middle School @ 377-9401.
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