CADCA’s Geographic Health Equity Alliance (GHEA) had the pleasure of training at Casey County Coalition’s Kentucky Youth Summit. This training aimed to educate youth on the importance of comprehensive, holistic k-12 commercial tobacco-free school policies and empower youth to advocate for healthier school environments.

The GHEA team kicked off the training with an overview of the importance of smokefree policies. They highlighted the role Big Tobacco has played in getting kids hooked on dangerous and deadly commercial tobacco products, the health risks associated with commercial tobacco products and nicotine and emphasized the role of smokefree environments in promoting public health. The session underscored how such policies can reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, prevent the initiation of smoking among youth, and support those trying to quit.

Following the overview, the team presented the key components of the Public Health Law Center’s Model K-12 Commercial Tobacco-Free School Policy. This model policy includes provisions for 1) prohibiting all people from using commercial tobacco products; 2) does not allow commercial product use in all buildings and grounds and at all school-sponsored activities; 3) provides access to cessation programs; and 4) emphasizes equitable enforcement. The GHEA team explained how the model policy addresses enforcement, communication, and support for cessation programs, ensuring a holistic approach to creating a commercial tobacco-free environment.

The training culminated in a dynamic mock school board meeting where youth participants, using a fake school policy, presented their findings and recommendations to school board members. They passionately advocated for updates to the fake school policy, drawing on the knowledge and skills gained during the training. These presentations showcased their understanding of the issues and honed their advocacy and public speaking skills.