A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Compendium of School-Based and School-Linked Programs for Pregnant and Parenting Adolescents, February 1999

Programs in Public Schools

Teen Net

Mission:

Support and guide pregnant and parenting teens at Kearney High School.

Profile:

Since 1992, Teen Net has provided education and support to pregnant and parenting teens. This school-based, community-sponsored program serves approximately 13 pregnant teens, 11 teen mothers, and 1 teen father each year, white (99 percent) and Hispanic (1 percent) students, ages 12 to 20.

Description of Service Model:

Located at Kearney High School, Teen Net is a collaborative program between Kearney Public Schools and Good Samaritan Hospital. Goals of the program include increasing the number of women receiving prenatal examinations in the first trimester; decreasing dropout rates; reducing low birth weight; immunization for children; decreasing abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect); and reducing teen pregnancy.

The core team consists of the program director, nurse coordinator, school nurse, counselors, students, and families. A secondary team is made up of public and private health and social services professionals and agencies that provide services to pregnant and parenting teens and their families.

The Teen Net team provides individually tailored programs for instruction and support, including selective home visits and credit for alternative education. It also offers easy access to community services, prenatal counseling and information, and parent and life skills training. Parents of teen parents may participate in a support group called Grandparents Before Our Time.

Evaluation Methods:

Graduating class statistics, records, and client follow-up indicate the program's success, and an annual report documents accomplishments.

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[Pregnant Minor and Infant/Toddler Programs] [Teen Self Help Demonstration Program]