Buffalo Academy of Science Debuts News Program

The impact of prevention efforts can be improved by increasing the frequency of positive and healthy messages that an audience receives.  For even greater impact, the chosen messages should be delivered by an array of different vehicles.  One sometimes overlooked but powerful vehicle for reaching kids is other kids. 

Thanks to a grant from WNED-TV through their LiveWell Project, Teenfocus was able to launch a new initiative to reach students at the Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School where we facilitate our Advantage After School Program.  “Wolverine News,” a news/health program featuring school announcements and tips that foster health and wellness, aired daily for two consecutive weeks at the school.  Each episode was from two to three minutes in total length and showcased the talents of two different “anchors” each time.  For its inaugural run, the program gave tips on nutrition, sleep, and stress management pertaining to doing well on final exams.  In the coming school year, the program will increase in length and cover a variety of topics including exercise, nutrition, alcohol and other drugs, bullying, gambling, conflict resolution, and many others.   

“Young people are exposed to so many negative messages by the mass media each day,” observed Teenfocus Programs Manager, Dave Mussen.  “Thanks to the support of WNED and the willingness of this school, we’ll be able to expose the students to positive messages through media of our own creation on a daily basis.” 

For more information on this initiative or other Teenfocus programs, contact Dave Mussen at extension 218 or dbmussen@gmail.com.