Mars Area High School was selected as a recipient of a Chris Herren: The First Day film grant.

The First Day, which will be presented to ninth-graders in their health classes, was filmed at public and private high schools over the course of a year and chronicles former professional basketball player Chris Herren’s journey and connections with high school students, who share their stories of struggle and strength. The film addresses issues, by which teens and communities are impacted, both directly and indirectly, including substance use, mental wellness and harmful behaviors.

Along with the film, the high school will receive curriculum, promoting a safe school and classroom space for discussing the issue of substance use, as well as resources with a series of lesson plans that include social/emotional learning and common core state standards that include themes such as, “The Science of Addiction,” “Breaking Down Stigma,” and “Components of a Healthy Life.”

For more information, visit https://thefirstdayfilm.com/resources/.