At Discovering Options, we aim to provide students with a truly enriching learning environment. We want each student who participates in the program to leave with greater confidence in themselves, the strength to resist the pressures of drugs and a stronger desire to achieve in school and in life. Our mission is to expand the options these students have, and to help them avoid drug use and other self-destructive behavior.

The PREP program’s conceptual framework is based upon the risk and protective factor theoretical framework developed by Richard Catalano, Ph.D. and J. David Hawkins, Ph.D. who argue that strengthening protective factors and reducing risk factors can deter youth from engaging in substance use and violent behaviors.

To maximize the fidelity of PREP, Discovering Options has prepared a complete manual that provides structure and consistency to the program, including general policies and procedures, recruitment and retention policies and procedures, home visits and risk assessments, case management procedure, lesson plans for daily implementation, pre- and post-tests, behavioral checklists, child and parent satisfaction surveys and mentoring guidance materials.

Core PREP staff is required to be licensed social workers trained in working with at-risk youth. Master’s level social work students serve as aides in the classroom, allowing the program to have a 5:1 student-teacher ratio.

St. Louis Public elementary and middle schools partner with Discovering Options to provide our services to their students. Our PREP programs are essential to keeping students drug free and engaged in their personal growth and development.

The PREP program consists of two components: an after-school program and a twenty session mentoringcomponent. We tailor separate programs for elementary and middle school students. In addition, we have a Family PREP program to encourage and cultivate parental involvement.

Program activities are design to (1) reduce likelihood of substance abuse; (2) increase participants’ self awareness; (3) improve social skills; (4) teach skills in handling conflict without violence; (5) expose children to other cultures; (6) reduce the likelihood of school drop out; and (7) strengthen the child’s connection to school.

According to findings of Missouri Institute of Mental Health (MIMH), the four-day-a-week PREP program is effective in improving child social skills. A strong theoretical model, interactive and interesting hands-on activities, intensive programming, the use of evidence-based social skills and substance use prevention curriculum, experienced professional staff, structured programming and high program fidelity all undoubtedly contributed to the success of the program.