Health Rocks!® is a light of hope for young people facing the pressures of substance use. This initiative is designed to equip youth with the knowledge and life skills to make healthy choices. Specifically, the Health Rocks!® program is designed to reduce tobacco, alcohol, and drug use among youth ages 8 to 14.

Urban Regional Extension Agent Angela Kelly visited Highland Avenue Elementary and Davis Elementary schools to implement Health Rocks!®. Fourth and fifth-grade students were interested in the “Vaping-Don’t Be Fooled” lesson. Initially, many students expressed discomfort in saying “no” to peer pressure. This aligns with research indicating that 85 percent of elementary students have experienced peer pressure, with many finding it challenging to resist such influences.

Program Activities

UREA Angela Kelly implements Health Rocks!® at Montgomery school.

Through hands-on activities, role-playing exercises, and discussions on decision-making and substance-use risks, students developed greater confidence in refusing drugs. A month later, some students shared impactful changes.

Program Results

One student was inspired to ask their parent to stop smoking and said, “I’ve been saying no and I asked my mom to try to stop smoking since that slide you showed said it could increase her life, I want my mom around.”

The program’s success extended to high school students, who, despite initial hesitation, embraced the initiative. Many expressed their enthusiasm about becoming Health Rocks!® Youth Ambassadors, reflecting the program’s ability to inspire lasting engagement and leadership.