Reconnecting Youth (RY)

RY & CAST Programs, LLC (DBA Reconnecting Youth Inc.)

Program Type

Education or Training Program

Cost

$1,001 to $2,500

Evidence Type

Empirically-Defined Evidence

SPRC Comprehensive Approach

Increase Help-Seeking, Respond to Crisis, Life Skills and Resilience, Connectedness

Program or Intervention Summary

Reconnecting Youth (RY) is a school-based, evidence-informed program designed to re-engage middle and high school-aged youth (grades 6–12) who are at risk of academic failure, dropout, substance misuse, or emotional distress. Its primary objectives are to improve school performance, reduce substance use, and enhance mood management. The program also fosters school bonding, a key protective factor against substance use and poor mental health.

Outcomes and Measurement

RY measures outcomes through pre-, mid-, and post-program surveys, using validated tools like the Revised School Achievement Checklist and Mood and Experiences Scales. Key domains include academic performance (grades, attendance), substance use frequency, perceptions of harm, mood regulation, and self-determination. Results from 2021–2025 show statistically significant improvements in school connectedness (up to 51%), reduction in ATOD use (up to 36%), enhanced mood regulation (e.g., reduced hopelessness and increased self-determination), and decreased depressive symptoms.

Population Served

RY targets students in grades 6–12 identified as at risk for school dropout or displaying academic, behavioral, or emotional challenges. Participants often present with histories of substance use, low grades, truancy, or emotional distress. The program is inclusive, with students identifying as female, male, and intersex, and includes diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Implementation Activities

RY is delivered over one school semester during the regular school day.  The curriculum is divided into five modules: (1) Introduction, (2) Self-Esteem Enhancement, (3) Decision-Making Skills, (4) Personal Control, and (5) Interpersonal Communication. Sessions involve goal setting, peer interaction, skill-building, and behavioral tracking. Parent involvement is encouraged, and staff are trained in suicide prevention and crisis response protocols.

Additional Details

Students consistently report high satisfaction with RY. Over 90% agree that the program helped them manage their mood and make better decisions. Notably, RY has shown sustained effectiveness even after pandemic-related disruptions. Its emphasis on early intervention, protective factors, and skill development positions it as a scalable model for dropout, substance use and suicide prevention.

Type Education or Training Program
Setting Online, Correctional Facility, Inpatient mental health facility, Residential facility, PK-12 School, Social Services or Public Health, Transition Between Settings, Tribal communities, United States Territory
People Women, Men
Languages English
Study Method Mixed Methods Design
Implementer Requirement Adults, K-12 school faculty and staff, Professional Educators
Training Requirement Yes
Delivery Options In-Person, Virtual live, Hybrid
Risk and Protective Factors Substance use, Social isolation, Effective coping and problem-solving skills, Strong sense of cultural identity

Is there a broken link on this page? Let us know!