Four area schools present "Leaders of the Pack" program

Notre Dame Regional High School, Jackson Junior High School, Oak Ridge School and Scott City School played host to 12 teenagers from McAuley Catholic High School who are part of a group called "Leaders of the Pack."

In a 50-minute program, "Leaders of the Pack" addressed teen and family issues through role-playing, singing and dancing.

The group exemplifies teenagers standing up for what they believe and portrays a positive image in avoiding high-risk behaviors such as abuse, alcohol, drugs, teen suicide, teenage pregnancy and anger.

University of Missouri Extension human development specialist Mary Gosche spent two days with the group. She said, "The response of the students from these schools has been phenomenal."

The group was brought to the area through the cooperation of the aforementioned schools, the Teen Pregnancy Responsibility Network, University of Missouri Extension and funds from Southeast Missouri United Way.