YRBSS

The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) measures health-related behaviors and experiences. Results help monitor health trends, identify emerging issues, and plan and evaluate programs that can help improve adolescent health.

While the YRBS is conducted statewide every other year, the MERSD administers the survey locally in order to track trends specific to our students. This data is presented to the School Committee and community, and used to drive student need-based decisions on programming and resources.  

What is the YRBSS?

The YRBSS is a system of surveys. It includes:

• A national survey, called the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), conducted by CDC that includes high school students from both private and public schools within the U.S.

• Surveys conducted by departments of health and education at the state, territorial, or local levels of their respective public high school students

Why is YRBS important?

YRBS results help monitor adolescent health behavior changes over time, identify emerging issues, and plan and evaluate programs to support the health of youth.  YRBS data are used by health departments, educators, lawmakers, doctors, and community organizations to inform school and community programs, communications campaigns, and other efforts.

Why is it valuable to collect health-related data about youth?

Participation brings students’ experiences to light so that parents, districts, and schools can provide the most appropriate resources for any challenges. Districts, schools, and students are randomly selected and cannot be replaced; each school’s participation is critical to ensure results are representative of youth nationwide. The YRBS gives students an opportunity to share their voice, anonymously and voluntarily.

Overview information from: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth