Teacher & Student Testimonials

“Neuroscience of Addiction program has probably done more to fight addictions to drugs and alcohol than any other program that I have ever encountered as a student or teacher. I would suggest this program to any high school educator who wants to focus their addiction-based learning on giving students the knowledge it takes on how to avoid addictive substances and addiction in their lives.” -Brad, a teacher at Sequoia High School
“During this interactive program, I felt comfortable talking about this issue which I have myself. The space was free and safe, which was the most important part. Also hearing the speaker talk (about his story) was very inspiring and helpful.” -A student at Gunn High School
“I learned that students lack essential knowledge about the neuroscience of addiction. Students were engaged and took away truly valuable concepts by learning the pleasure scale. I appreciated developing teacher support and planning learning prior to class.” -David, a teacher at EPAA
“Boom! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for teaching us! Education in this sort of thing is so important and I’m grateful that you taught it to us these past couple of weeks. The rate of drug use among youth is oddly high (pun not intended) and often it’s because the user hasn’t been properly taught on the matter. I can tell you’re a very kind soul and I hope you can teach more in the future. Take care.” -A student at Mills High School
“It really helped educate me on the actual science behind addiction and how drugs will affect me. There are so many risk factors I didn’t know about” –a student at Palo Alto High School
Dear Chris and Dan,
I didn’t get to say goodbye and properly thank you on Friday! So, I wanted to take the time now to say on behalf of the school community, I want to extend our sincerest thanks to both of you for your unwavering commitment to educating our students about addiction. “How Did This Happen to Me” has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on their hearts and minds, equipping them with knowledge and empathy that will shape their perspectives and choices as they navigate their futures.
Chris, your willingness to share your personal story and shed light on the journey of addiction was incredibly powerful. You demonstrated remarkable courage and vulnerability, capturing the attention and empathy of our students. Your personal story undoubtedly left a lasting impression on every one of them.
Dan, your dedication to educating students about addiction and providing them with valuable information is wonderful! The delivery of educational content on addiction and the accompanying interactive games using buzzers added an engaging and fun element to the session. By making learning interactive and enjoyable, you have helped the students connect with the subject matter on a deeper level.
Your program has raised awareness about the dangers of addiction and fostered empathy and compassion among our students. You have undoubtedly empowered them to approach this issue with greater understanding. Thank you for all that you do. -Anisha, Sandpiper MS
Hi all,
I recommend Daniel Dadoun of the Addiction Education Society. He provided 4, 60-minute sessions to FDR 7th and 8th graders covering the brain science of addiction, vaping, and other drugs. He comes organized, prepared, and does all the teaching. In addition, he brought in a guest speaker who struggles with addiction to share his experience. Teachers/counselors don’t need to do anything except schedule him and administer a short post-survey after the lessons.
Dan is very easy to work with, professional and flexible. For example, he is willing to decrease the number of sessions if you have time limits. I attended all his sessions and saw that he can redirect students in a positive way and gets a lot of student participation. -Amber, Franklin D. Roosevelt
“How Did This Happen to Me,” prepares students for becoming more informed about addiction. I think this is an opportunity every student should have. This program will allow students to learn important vocabulary, its effects on the brain, how to say no, what addiction is, and for students to look at ways/methods to create a stronger sense of self. This program impacts the participants, the faculty, and the school community with which the participants interact. I encourage fellow educators to participate in this program. -Susan, Fernando Rivera