Description of Program

IMPACT is the name of Los Angeles Unified School District's prevention and early intervention program. It provides a systematic approach for the identification , referral, and support of students who are exhibiting behavior of concern related to possible substance use or violence. Each middle and high school has an IMPACT coordinator and a Core Team of teachers and other staff members who are responsible for implementing and maintaining the components of the program

Components of Program

Each school site has a Zero-Tolerance Policy that reflects the District's commitment to maintain safe schools which are drug-, alcohol-, and tobacco-free. Students who are found under the influence or in possession of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco are subject to a series of procedures that are clear, fair, and consistent and that have escalating consequences for repeated offenses.

Awareness Activities and Education`

Activities and education on the effects of drug abuse, resistance skills, and intervention strategies are provided for the entire school community on an ongoing basis through assemblies, newsletters, speakers, and classroom presentations.

Identification and Referral

This is a twofold process in which an IMPACT coordinator interviews and pre-assesses a student who is having problems at home, in school, or in the community. A determination is then made as to what services, if any, would best support the student.

A student needing support may be placed, with parent permission, in a teacher-facilitated educational support group that meets once a week during the school day. Each of the following groups has a curriculum:

ATOT
Recovery

Concerned Persons

Crisis

Grief Crisis

IMPACT Plus

 

If a student is in need of a service not provided at the school site, he or she may be referred to an appropriate community agency or resource.