SENATOR WALCZYK APPLAUDS GLOVERSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS DURING NATIONAL PREVENTION WEEK

On May 9th, as part of National Prevention Week, students from Gloversville Enlarged School District sat down with Senator Mark Walczyk at the NYS Capitol. During their visit, students highlighted the vital importance of prevention efforts aimed at reducing substance use and promoting positive mental health in our communities.

National Prevention Week serves as a public education platform to showcase the incredible work of organizations and advocates dedicated to preventing substance misuse and fostering mental well-being. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this initiative is instrumental in advancing the behavioral health of our nation.

Recent data from the Gloversville Youth Survey reveals promising trends in reducing substance use among local students, notably when many school districts are seeing rising numbers. The percentage of students in grades 6-12 reporting alcohol use in the past 30 days has dropped from 20.9% in 2018 to 11.8% in 2024. Similarly, e-cigarette use has decreased from 22.6% to 14.9%, and cigarette smoking has fallen from 3.4% to 2%. Marijuana use has also decreased from 15.9% to 13.3%, although the use of vape marijuana rose slightly from 5.9% to 7.3%.

Lifetime use statistics reflect this positive shift as well, with alcohol use declining from 33% in 2018 to 25.4% in 2024. The percentage of students who have tried e-cigarettes has decreased from 26.2% to 21.1%, and marijuana use has fallen from 23.2% to 18.2%. Notably, lifetime use of vape marijuana has dropped from 14.6% to 7.3%.

While the recent increase in reported vaping marijuana is concerning, the overall decline in other categories demonstrates the effectiveness of educational programs and community support in promoting healthier choices. These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work and commitment of Gloversville High School students and the advocacy groups supporting them.

“Gloversville High School student advocates are truly making a remarkable impact in their community, and I couldn’t be prouder to see the positive changes reflected in these impressive statistics. While other communities are experiencing rising substance use rates, Gloversville is achieving the exact opposite. The hard work and dedication demonstrated by these students are nothing short of inspiring. Their unwavering commitment to prevention and healthier choices speaks volumes about their character and the nurturing environment created by local advocates and recovery organizations. These students have not only embraced the importance of their well-being but have also taken on the responsibility of being role models for their peers and I commend each one of them for their remarkable achievements.”