Over 5,000 southeast Saskatchewan students in Grades 4 to 12, from both the Holy Family and South East Cornerstone school divisions, participated in a recent survey to determine the level of supports they have at their disposal.

In an effort to improve the well-being and outcomes for children, youth and families, the students were questioned about the availability of 40 different development assets. The number of assets that they possess is highly correlated to decisions they will make and behaviours they will exhibit.

Students with higher asset totals will be less likely to participate in risk behaviours, such as smoking, alcohol and marijuana use, physical aggression and violence, and suicide. They will also be more likely to participate in thriving behaviours, such as informally helping others, exhibiting leadership, controlling impulsive behaviors, overcoming adversity and experiencing success in school.

Students with fewer assets are more likely to engage in risk behaviours, and less likely to demonstrate thriving behaviours.

Young people in Grades 4 and 5 participated in a “Me and My World” Study. About 71 per cent of students had at least 21 of 40 internal and external developmental assets, and 31 per cent had 31 to 40 assets.

Among external assets, 88 per cent of youth said they have strong family support, school boundaries and high expectations. But only 24 per cent felt they had enough time at home.

As for internal assets, 89 per cent listed honesty, but only 42 per cent felt they had a sense of purpose.

Grade 6 to 12 students were part of an Attitudes and Behaviours Survey. Only eight per cent had at least 31 of 40 assets, and 34 per cent had 21 to 30 assets.

The most common external asset was family support at 72 per cent, while creative activities were the least common at 16 per cent.

A positive view of their personal future was the most common internal asset at 79 per cent, while cultural competence and reading for pleasure were the least common at 24 per cent.

Both school divisions in conjunction with Sun Country Health Region and the Southeast Regional Intersectoral Committee (RIC) will study both the aggregate and community level data. In the fall, there will be four evening sessions with school community councils where the data will be shared and discussed.