Why we evaluate:
Quantitative evaluation of prevention efforts allows us to highlight the components of programs that are having the greatest effect, as well as indicating areas that may need improvement. Through this process, provider agencies and the State of Tennessee can be assured that their programs are making the best possible use of time and allocated funding. The ultimate goal is the protection of the health and well being of our most precious resource, the children of Tennessee, through concentrated efforts to enable them to make the choice to be free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Who benefits:
The children of Tennessee are our highest priority. Alcohol and drug prevention efforts are designed to reduce the influence of substances on at-risk children, and help them reach their full potential.

Agencies benefit from the knowledge which components of their programs are the most effective, and can improve those that show the need for extra attention.

The State of Tennessee benefits from the reduction of substance abuse and the associated health and public safety issues that coincide with it.

How evaluation is performed:
Agencies throughout the state of Tennessee providing prevention services programs administer validated standardized surveys to participants both before and after their program. These surveys are matched as pre- and post-tests from an individual program participant. The participant remains anonymous to the TADPOLE to maintain confidentiality.

Once the program is completed, the surveys are returned to ADPRC and entered into a database for statistical analysis. Outcomes are analyzed by region, and reports are provided to the Tennessee Department of Health as well as to the individual provider agencies. Over a period of years, trends will appear in the data which identify long term efficacy of prevention efforts.

For more information regarding the specific methodologies used, please refer to the "Methodology" section of this site.