At McKinley Elementary School, sixth-grade APEX students have been learning about civics, including laws that are not always followed by the public. Smoking in public places, for instance — including where children play — can be an issue. Additionally, while Abington Township has an ordinance posted on signage at each Abington School District school that expresses the prohibition of smoking, students felt that additional signage with fewer words and an illustration might be more effective and raise greater awareness.
As a result of these efforts and the students’ willingness to serve as advocates for their cause, teacher Ms. Jennifer Tanay got in touch with Young Lungs at Play, an initiative that aims to reduce youth and community members’ exposure to second-hand smoke, tobacco-related litter, and provide clean and healthy areas to play and exercise. Thanks to the motivation of the McKinley students, Abington School District was able to secure, at no cost, weather-resistant Young Lungs at Play! signs to be installed at all seven elementary schools in the District. Together with administration, the students and Ms. Tanay decided the best spots for the signs to be displayed at each location in order for its message to get the most exposure, including identifying areas in close proximity to playground equipment and/or a basketball court or playing field. The signs show a child on a swing and include a URL for smokers who want help quitting. As one student explained, “Even if it only changes one person’s mind, that decision could have saved an innocent kid’s life.”
