HUDDLE is a group consisting of juniors and seniors of Wadsworth High School who volunteer to go to Wadsworth elementary schools, educating those students about the dangers of smoking and drug use, they also teach how to use refusal skills properly.

HUDDLE stands for “Helping Us Develop Dedication, Leadership and Enthusiasm.”

Beth Beal is a Prevention Specialist and the head of HUDDLE. She helps the members of the group become more educated on the topic through practices and training.

“HUDDLE leaders are trained in the curriculum. Wadsworth is using the Hope Curriculum from Wright State University. Training includes relationship building, classroom management, communication, and teamwork,” Beal said.

HUDDLE members visit Isham, Lincoln, Valley View, Overlook, Franklin, Sacred Heart and Grizzly Academy. HUDDLE meets with the elementary schools about every month.

Junior Grace Sharp is a member of HUDDLE. She believes that HUDDLE is beneficial to elementary students.

“I do believe that the students who decide to join are doing it for the right reason; everyone in HUDDLE takes it seriously and does their part,” Sharp said. “As for the elementary kids, I think they like having a break from class, and most groups decided to bring toys or candy to those who participate, which they enjoy. Even without candy, they will answer to the best of their abilities and will take the presentation like we are the teachers.”

HUDDLE focuses on younger students for several reasons, one being their ability to take in information while working with peers.

“Studies show that younger students learn from peer relationships. High School students benefit from learning the curriculum and recommit to being drug-free,” Beal said. “The earlier drug prevention begins, the better the chances that students are able to stay drug-free.”

The Medina County Share Coalition, made up of Medina County schools and agencies, created HUDDLE.

HUDDLE, or some form of it, has been implemented in all Medina County Schools to teach drug prevention effectively in the elementary schools for approximately 20 years.