Arona Schools Expand Student Well-Being and Risk-Prevention Programs

Arona’s schools are successfully using emotional well-being and risk-prevention programs to improve student life. Following a recent review with the management teams of the municipality’s six schools, the local council reported that these initiatives reached 3,100 students across secondary, high school, and vocational programs.

The programs focus on raising awareness about risky behaviors, specifically addressing substance use—such as alcohol, cannabis, and vaping—as well as gambling and digital habits. These topics, along with mental health, nutrition, diversity, and sexual education, are taught through interactive group activities. Teachers noted that this hands-on approach has been key to the program's success.

Beyond the classroom, the city is using culture as a teaching tool. The Infanta Leonor Auditorium hosted theater performances for 1,300 students, including The House of Bernarda Alba and The Last Verse. Each performance was followed by a discussion, helping students connect the plays to their academic studies.

These efforts reflect a broader trend in the Spanish education system, where preventing addiction and building emotional intelligence are now seen as essential for reducing absenteeism and creating a better classroom environment. Given the positive results, Arona’s educational community plans to expand these programs next year, strengthening the partnership between local government and schools.