General

This talented and diverse group of 8 to 10 young people is dedicated to bringing a life-changing message of hope to students even in the most difficult circumstances. Having seen the effects of drug abuse on family members, etc. and “beaten the odds” themselves, the team have an immediate rapport to relate to those coming from similar situations. They present a message of living right, making good choices (despite their obstacles) and realizing the consequences of their choices. Their message is effective and well received by every audience because they don’t just “talk the talk,” but “walk the walk” themselves.

Introduction

For years now, since before Texas Gov. George Bush gave grant monies to StraightWay to go into the schools as part of his "faith-based initiative," StraightWay Drug Prevention (SWDP) has been the largest program of its kind to Texas schools. You may have seen StraightWay at one of the annual, regional state conferences in the past, but have not had an opportunity to invite the group to your school. For those of you unfamiliar with the program, this page is a brief introduction. The outreach team uses the performing arts to challenge up to 700,000 students each year through over 1,500 presentations, which averages out to about three to four school assemblies per day. In addition to the school presentations, SWDP has started approximately 70 StraightWay Clubs in Texas schools, giving them follow-up training to enable them to make a positive impact on their generation though similar values and vision.

Presentation Format

The presentation by StraightWay is performed in a concert-style assembly with all original music, which they’ve written and produced themselves (they just completed their fourth CD). They also use drama, comedy, dance, video productions and motivational speaking (puppetry for the primary-age group) to communicate their message. On request, the team may emphasize a variety of subjects including drug prevention, abstinence, pre-TAKS motivationals, etc. The presentation meets all the guidelines of state requirements, entitled "Principles of Effectiveness."

The message transcends all kinds of "barriers", whether they be racial prejudice or just conflicts experienced daily at home or work. It deals with issues that plague many teenagers' families today, like divorce, and resounds with a positive answer of love and reconciliation--the reality for which people everywhere are searching. The groups CD's of original music have a great variety of music that relates to everyone and are produced as a way to preserve their message (lyrics included)

The Bigger Picture

The StraightWay program provides follow-up by giving students a resource to contact when they have individual questions or concerns, but schools may also identify plans to follow-up the educational experience provided by StraightWay. Follow-up activities may include journalizing, discussion groups, StraightWay Club (SWC) trainings, student presentation at non-participating district campuses or grade levels, etc. If you are not familiar with StraightWay, you can find more information and see video clips of their performances at www.straightway.org

As one of the most in-demand programs of it's kind, StraightWay has taken its message through the Performing Arts not only throughout Texas, but also from midwest states like Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas & Louisiana to western states California and Arizona, as well as conducting a tour each May through the UK and Europe.

Having StraightWay come to your campus is time well spent and an investment for future classes because the presentation is not only captivating and energetic, but has proven to be most effective in communicating its vital message to students.

StraightWay is a non-profit (501-C-3) organization governed by a national Board of Directors, and is a member of the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston. StraightWay is supported and dependent upon freewill gifts. Your contributions are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.