Joseph H. Brensinger School (P.S. #17)

Grades PreK–8 • Jersey City, New Jersey

The Joseph H. Brensinger School is actively involved in the REBEL program, or Reaching Everyone by Exposing Lies. REBEL is a statewide youth-led anti-tobacco movement with chapters in all 21 counties of New Jersey. REBEL helps students resist the peer pressure that surrounds them in all facets of their lives, especially with tobacco use; REBEL members have all made a pledge to stay tobacco free. The program encourages participants to think about the needs of others (i.e., community and peers) as well as exposes them to the health dangers of smoking. REBEL provides students with opportunities for moral action and for creating a caring school community, and engages students, school staff, families and community members in the anti-tobacco initiative. Activities have included hosting an anti-tobacco poster contest, with winners receiving prominent display, REBEL students performing an original rap at a regional youth rally, REBEL students reading and discussing relevant books with primary grades, and a Health Day to benefit the school and community.