On May 9th, students from Gloversville Enlarged School District met with Senator Mark Walczyk at the NYS Capitol during National Prevention Week. The students emphasized the importance of prevention efforts to reduce substance use and promote mental health in communities.
National Prevention Week is a public education initiative sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It aims to highlight the work of organizations and advocates focused on preventing substance misuse and fostering mental well-being.
Data from the Gloversville Youth Survey shows a decline in substance use among local students, contrasting with rising numbers in other districts. Alcohol use among students in grades 6-12 dropped from 20.9% in 2018 to 11.8% in 2024. E-cigarette use decreased from 22.6% to 14.9%, cigarette smoking fell from 3.4% to 2%, and marijuana use declined from 15.9% to 13.3%. However, vape marijuana use slightly increased from 5.9% to 7.3%.
Lifetime use statistics also show improvement, with alcohol use decreasing from 33% in 2018 to 25.4% in 2024, e-cigarette experimentation dropping from 26.2% to 21.1%, and marijuana use falling from 23.2% to 18.2%. Lifetime vape marijuana use reduced significantly from 14.6% to 7.3%.
The increase in vaping marijuana is concerning, but the overall decline in other areas highlights the success of educational programs and community support promoting healthier choices.
Senator Walczyk praised the students’ efforts: “Gloversville High School student advocates are truly making a remarkable impact in their community, and I couldn’t be prouder to see the positive changes reflected in these impressive statistics… These students have not only embraced the importance of their well-being but have also taken on the responsibility of being role models for their peers and I commend each one of them for their remarkable achievements.”
