• Overview of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT): SBIRT is used to screen for alcohol, nicotine, tobacco, and other drug use. This health screening is required by Massachusetts law (MGL Chapter 71, Section 97).

    The SBIRT process begins by using a validated screening tool (CRAFFT+N) to identify the student’s current substance-use behaviors and related risks, and moves into a one-on-one conversation using motivational interviewing techniques to support and reinforce healthy behaviors and to explore knowledge of and motivation for changing unhealthy behaviors. In some cases, SBIRT may identify a student with more frequent or dangerous substance use who requires referral for further assessment or treatment. 

    The goal of doing SBIRT at Newburyport High School, is to empower students to make decisions that promote their health and safety, and to provide an opportunity for early identification of risks related to alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, and other drug use. Achieving this goal requires the collaboration of parents/guardians, local health care providers, students, school health professionals (i.e., nurses, counselors, psychologists), and other members of the school staff and administration.