This after school program targets the 4th through 8th grade and is adapted from the Courage to Speak^® Drug Prevention Curriculum. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to avoid substance use and make healthy decisions.

Program Overview

The Courage to Speak^® After School Program is based on the book Sunny’s Story by Ginger Katz. Designed for grades 4-8, this program brings drug prevention education into after school settings through storytelling, creative expression, and guided discussion.

After reading Sunny’s Story, students participate in art and creative writing activities that help reinforce healthy choices, refusal skills, and communication with trusted adults.

Activities

The program includes a series of structured activities:

• Activity #1: The Story, Part I
• Activity #2: The Story, Part II
• Activity #3: Grown-ups To Trust
• Activity #4: Friends and Friendship

Worksheet Section

• Drug Knowledge Assessment Pyramid
• Post Activity Facilitator Evaluation Form
• Activity Invitations to Parents (English & Spanish)
• Identifying Grown-Ups to Trust Worksheets
• Worksheets on Friendship and Healthy Choices

Benefits

This after school program blends storytelling with interactive learning to build confidence, strengthen decision-making, and provide a solid foundation for living a healthy, drug-free life.

Testimonials

“I thought this story was serious not to take drugs and inspiring... I know I will never take drugs.”
- 4th Grade Student, Norwalk CT

“I loved Sunny’s Story. It taught me how not to keep secrets from my parents.”
- 6th Grade Student, Bridgeport CT

“Educators and parents need to be as strong in voice as Sunny is in the story. This story has to be told and it will save lives.”
- David Hay, Brookside Elementary School Principal