Chinook West students presented at the 22nd Shared Risk and Protective Factors Conference that was held in Keystone from June 1 through June 3. The Shared Risk and Protective Factors Conference attracted adults and young people from across Colorado actively engaged in upstream or primary prevention efforts at the state and local level. By applying a “shared risk and protective factors” lens, we can positively impact young people through reducing risk behaviors and increasing protective factors in the family, school, and community. This event aims to strengthen collaboration efforts across organizations and funders; build skills to enhance implementation of evidence-based prevention practices, policies, and programs; and highlight successful efforts of community-led coalitions.

Eight students were involved in the planning and presentation about how ChinookWest andTEENS, Inc. integrate PYD (Positive Youth Development), Life Effectiveness Skills, relationship growth, and Restorative Justice/ Practice frameworks into daily school and after-school routines. Despite this being the students’ first public presentation outside of school, the presentation was received enthusiastically by a large audience. The students were remarkably effective during the question and answer session, displaying confidence in their knowledge and understanding of the application of Chinook West’s fundamental culture. Many of the audience interacted with the presenters afterwards and several commented that this session had been their favorite.

Tom Holmquist, the Chinook West language arts teacher, supervised the group, and would be the first to admit that the students were the primary planners of the presentation. Students who were involved in the presentation were: Tabi Lamb, Nate Sheppard, Seraph Kelly, Wylde Monroe-Kelly, Lily Svensallen, Garrett Thomson, Terry Collins, and Jordan Kidane.

It goes without saying that this group of students brought credit to the Nederland community.

Chinook West High School is a BVSD contract school located at TEENS, Inc. Further information about the school and other programs is available at www.teensinc.orgpractical