Staff Shares: Carlee Biehl

KED & YOU

Share your favorite moment from recent programming:

I recently did a presentation at a BPS High School and some of the students were so shocked by the information in our Vaping 101 Presentation, they decided to give up their vapes to the principal and quit on the spot!

Why is this work especially important in our community? As a former teacher, I’ve seen first-hand how using addictive substances like alcohol and vapes have impacted students' ability to learn and develop in the classroom. Coming into school hung over or high impacts not only the student choosing to do it but the behaviors over all disrupt the learning environment and school community. It's important for kids to learn this information not only because it's important but because it helps keep them safe.

How can substance use be prevented from an early age?

Teach your child early to set boundaries and express themself openly! Mikayla does this in her Back2Basics program and it's amazing to see how the kids grow in just 8 weeks. If your child doesn’t know how to say no to peer pressure, or can’t advocate for themselves in a stressful situation, it’s important you teach them the skills to recognize when they are uncomfortable, unsafe, or some is disrespecting a boundary they set, this way your child can address it and correct the situation. When kids recognize those patterns of damaging behavior, they are less likely to display them in the future.

What’s one thing you wish every parent knew about teen substance use?

Almost 99% of the time substance use is just a symptom of an undiagnosed mental health condition. Whether it's anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, ADHD, etc... people have learned to use addictive substances to “self-medicate” their ailments. If you are really wondering why your child has started using addictive substances, ask them about their mental health and address their concerns with the proper professionals.

In one sentence, how would you describe the importance of early intervention?

"An informed choice is always better than an uninformed choice."

You can’t control all the decisions your child makes in life, but when your child inevitably makes the decision to use an addictive substance, it’s important they have the correct information so they can keep themselves safe and educated.

ABOUT YOU

What’s one self-care habit that helps you recharge?

I love painting my nails fun colors & designs.

What helps you prepare or get ready for a presentation?

A good snack. Usually, a granola bar or some kind of pretzels. 

Favorite Small business:

Fairy Cakes Buffalo

Favorite Restaurant:

Frankie Primos

Favorite Coffee Shop:

Coffee and Stone Cafe

What is your coffee order?

I will drink a Caramel Macchiato from literally anywhere