Frequently Asked Questions
A: There are 10 lessons for 10 weeks. Each lesson takes about 45-60 min depending on the size of the class. It is possible to split each lesson into two sessions. It is also possible to facilitate more than one lesson each week but we do not recommend more than that.
A: Our research demonstrated that classroom teachers are the ideal facilitators of kiR. They already know the students, they are expert educators, they can provide continuity and integrate the kiR content into all other subjects they teach.
A: The program is designed to be facilitated by classroom teachers within the school day because it is a universal program. It is for all students in the classroom regardless of their level of risk. Implementing the program after school will not guarantee that all students will participate.
A: Yes, the program has been aligned with state standards although the exact standards vary by state. Please reach out for assistance with aligning to your local curriculum requirements.
A: Rather than relying on fear-based messaging or lectures, kiR uses a strengths-based, interactive approach grounded in the real experiences of young people. The curriculum was developed from research with adolescents who had successfully resisted substance use and incorporates authentic youth stories, culturally relevant scenarios, role-playing, videos, games, and classroom discussions.
A: Yes. Keepin' it REAL has been implemented internationally and adapted for different cultural settings.
The program has been culturally adapted for Mexico as Mantente REAL (MREAL) and continues to be adapted and evaluated in several countries, including nations in sub-Saharan Africa.
Mantente REAL (MREAL) is the culturally adapted version of keepin' it REAL developed for Mexico and other Spanish-speaking contexts. It maintains the evidence-based core of kiR while addressing cultural factors such as violence, intimidation, gender dynamics, and local social norms.