ALT Know better, do better. As children mature, it is natural for them to assert their independence, seek new challenges, and engage in risky behavior including underage drinking. Alcohol is the most widely used substance among America's youth and can cause them extreme health and safety risks. While it may seem like a rite of passage, there are a slew of health risks involved in underage drinking, including irreversible brain damage, growth effects, addiction, injury, or death.

ALT Photo of two firefighters tending to a car that has been in an accident

ALT Thomas Jaques '23, Justin Estrada '24, and Patrick Cavanagh '25 perform during ONCE UPON A MATTRESS

ALT Healing from heartbreak. A breakup is typically terrible for a teen. Studies show that teens feel emotions with enormous intensity relative to adults. The highs seem higher, and the lows, well, they're crushingly low. These first relationships are a part of growing up. These relationships, successful or not, teach you how to have healthy, positive connections. They teach you about your values, what to expect from other people, and how to react to challenges in relationships throughout their lives.

ALT The Institute for Family Studies is here to help you through heartbreak. Recognize what you need! Whether that be talking to family, friends, or an adult you trust, or being given space to process and heal. Keep yourself busy! Utilize your afterschool activities, hobbies, and friends to help stay present in the moment and not dwell on the negative. Connect with those around you! Easier said than done, but recognize the people around you that love and support you. They're there to help you and want the best for you. And remember, Laura Zaniol, LICSW, our School Social Worker; Jenn Monti, RN, our School Nurse; and any of our school counselors are always there to lend an ear.