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The Washington County Teen Outreach Program (TOP) grant is funded through the Missouri Department
of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The TOP grant makes it possible for the Washington County Health Department
to provide several Washington County school districts with the Wyman TOP Program.
How does
TOP work? Students meet weekly or bi-weekly to discuss issues related to life, such as communication,
decision-making, goal-setting, values, relationships, and adolescent growth. These discussions along with community service
learning will increase young peoples’ understanding of relationship between practicing healthy behaviors now and achieving
lifelong goals.
Based upon the principles
of youth development, an approach that provides teens with the necessary supports and opportunities to prepare for successful
adulthood and avoid problem behavior, TOP has proven effective in increasing academic success and preventing teen pregnancy
and other negative behaviors among program participants.
Teens that complete Wyman's TOP experience: - 60% lower
rate of school dropout
- 33% lower rate of pregnancy
- 14% lower rate of
school suspension
- 11% lower rate of school course failure
Who can
join TOP? Boys and girls who are at least 12 years old and are in any participating school district
can join TOP. Why join TOP? TOP
is a fun and safe environment which students can make friends and feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with
others. Members of the TOP club enjoy the satisfaction that comes with contributing to their community. TOP
club members also enjoy various field trips during the school year. Don’t forget…volunteer time can be an excellent
start for a resume!
What is the cost for parents? There is very
little, if any, cost to parents. T-Shirts, field trips, grade incentives and most transportation is paid
for by the Washington County Teen Outreach Grant. How do students join? Students may join the TOP Program by picking
up enrollment forms from their school. For more information about the TOP Program, parents may contact
Angie Harbison or Judy Wright at Washington County Health Department by calling (573) 438-2164. EMAIL TOP Coordinator
TOP is currently implemented at Potosi Intermediate and
Middle schools, Richwoods, and Kingston K-14.
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