Sioux Falls, SD — Emily’s Hope, a leading non-profit organization in substance use awareness, education, and prevention, is proud to announce the launch of its Substance Use Prevention Curriculum for grades K-5. This groundbreaking curriculum is now available on Emily’s Hope’s new educational website, emilyshopeedu.org.
Designed to educate the youngest members of society, the curriculum aims to instill a strong foundational understanding of the impact of substances on the human body and brain. Created by a panel of experts, including an addiction medicine child psychiatrist, addiction studies professor, school administrators, counselors, and teachers, the curriculum offers a multi-faceted approach to substance use prevention.
Over 4,000 Students to Be Impacted
The new curriculum has already generated considerable interest, with more than two dozen schools across five states signing up to implement it. The program is expected to reach over 4,000 students in the 2023-2024 academic year alone. Schools interested in exploring or implementing this curriculum are encouraged to reach out for more information, as Emily’s Hope continues to welcome new educational partners.
In-Depth Curriculum
One of the standout features of the program is the inclusion of a children’s book for each grade level and a corresponding animated series. The comprehensive lesson plans teach kids as young as Kindergarten age about the science of the brain and how substances can affect it. Topics such as identifying a trusted adult, medication safety, and the risks of the illicit drug supply are also covered.
Why It Matters
The need for early education on substance use is more urgent than ever. Overdose deaths among teenagers have doubled within a three-year period. Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope, believes that “it’s crucial to equip our children with the knowledge and tools they need to make healthy choices for their futures.”
For further information or to find out how your school can participate, please visit emilyshopeedu.org or contact:
Valerie Peters
Education Administrator
Emily’s Hope
valerie@emilyshopeedu.org
For press inquiries, please contact:
Anna Fey
Marketing Manager/Executive Assistant
Emily’s Hope
annafey@emilyshope.charity
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About Emily’s Hope
Emily’s Hope was founded by Angela Kennecke after experiencing the heartbreaking loss of her 21-year-old daughter, Emily, to fentanyl poisoning. The organization is resolute in its mission to remove the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention. Determined to eliminate financial barriers for treatment and recovery, Emily’s Hope is a beacon of hope for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. Angela’s personal tragedy fuels her passion to change society’s perception and treatment of addiction, and with your support, we can make a transformative impact. Emily’s Hope, born out of a personal loss, strives to ensure that no other family has to endure a similar tragedy.