Positive Youth Development School Transfer Model
Positive Youth Development of Erie County is a county-wide prevention initiative located at Susan Hirt Hagen (CORE), on the campus of Penn State Behrend. The mission of PYD is to infuse the 40 Developmental Asset prevention framework into all sectors of Erie County. The 40 Developmental Assets are the social science research-based protective factors that buffer youth from risk and are deeply rooted in positive relationships (mentoring). The Positive Youth Development prevention initiative is comprised of many essential components.
40 Developmental Asset Training/ Technical Assistance
Anyone can be an asset-builder by receiving training in the 40 Developmental Assets and Mentoring. Trainings are 4-6 hours in length and can be divided over the course of the school year. In addition, PYD staff can provide monthly visits to the schools for technical assistance on all aspects of the PYD prevention framework.
Youth Data/School Climate Surveys
The staff from Susan Hirt Hagen CORE and PYD are experts in evaluation and planning. Student data is utilized for planning and programming and include:
- 40 Developmental Asset Survey
- School Climate Survey
Student Leadership Councils
Empowering students to be planners and decision-makers in their communities is critical. Students should be seen as part of the solution, not part of the problem in strategic planning. Students are trained and meet monthly to discuss plans for activities and events that create a positive school climate.
School Building Prevention Plans
PYD staff can facilitate a data-driven, strategic planning process that allows students and staff to develop a plan to create a positive school climate and reduce problem behaviors unique to individual school districts. The plans are shared with the community advisory board for assistance and are evaluated annually for progress.
Youth Leadership Summits
PYD of Erie County sponsors annual Student Leadership Summits at various schools across Erie County to bring all student leaderships councils together to share ideas and network. All public and private schools in Erie County are encouraged to participate in this student-led event that promotes student leadership and creating a more positive school climate.
Community Advisory Boards
Community advisory boards meet monthly with staff and students and address critical concerns in schools and communities. They are comprised of all sectors of the community and address such important issues. Meetings are held at the school and open to the public.