You can see their posters at Barrington stores, the high school, the police station, the library and the Town Hall. Each one sends out a message about the dangers of drinking and driving and the impact of alcohol on a developing brain.

The posters were created by fourth- and fifth-graders at Hampden Meadows School. They are part of the “Protecting You/Protecting Me” curriculum at the school. 

Kathleen Sullivan, program manager for The BAY Team in Barrington, said two health teachers at the school, Lauren Graham and Donna Cerio, have been using PY/PM “to teach essential knowledge and skills that help students make informed decisions.   

“PY/PM helps reach children before they have fully shaped their attitudes and opinions about alcohol use by youth,” Sullivan said. “The lessons reinforce the fact that the brains of children and adolescents are still maturing and respond to alcohol dramatically differently than those of adults, putting children at a much higher risk. In addition, the lessons also cover a variety of life skills including media awareness, communication, and vehicle safety.”

As part of the curriculum, students created the posters. The BAY Team, Barrington’s drug-free community coalition, found homes for the posters throughout Barrington. Three of the posters also will be on display at the MADD RI office in Providence. 

“Involving youth in prevention efforts is a key to successful community change,” said Sullivan. “The posters speak volumes with their youthful safety message and bright colors.”