Assessing Effectiveness of Students Taking a Right Stand (STARS) Nashville Student Assistance Programs

Y

8

Quasiexperimental Design; Middle Schools; High Schools; Meta Analysis; Program Effectiveness; Developmental Studies Programs; Research Design; Statistical Significance; Positive Attitudes; Alcohol Abuse; Alcohol Education; Drug Use; Suspension; Attendance; Academic Achievement; Dropout Prevention; Integrated Services; Program Implementation; Program Evaluation; Pretests Posttests

10.1080/1067828X.2013.829015

1067-828X

Background: Since 1984, Students Taking a Right Stand (STARS) Nashville has implemented Student Assistance Programs (SAPs) in the middle Tennessee area, to include 14 counties and 16 school districts. STARS Nashville serves K-12 with a focus in middle and high schools. Methods: The current study reviewed studies that utilized quasi-experimental and experimental study designs, together with cross-sectional surveys to report the effectiveness of STARS Nashville SAPs. Results: STARS Nashville SAP has shown statistical significance in promoting positive attitudes toward non-use of alcohol and other drugs and non-rebelliousness and decreased alcohol and other drug use among students. Additional evaluation data indicate that STARS Nashville SAPs have reduced suspension (including violence-related suspension), improved attendance, improved grades, and prevented dropping out of school. Conclusions: STARS Nashville has demonstrated success among Hispanic and Asian ethnic groups and is most effective with Caucasian and African-American populations.

As Provided

47

2015

EJ1076825