March 12, 2026
Quick recap
The meeting focused on discussing challenges and updates related to prevention programs, particularly in the context of Senate Bill 12 and curriculum requirements. Participants shared experiences with tobacco compliance checks, program audits, and the inefficiencies of the CMBHS system. They highlighted issues with social media engagement, referral processes, and the effectiveness of current curricula. Kendra and others expressed concerns about the lack of flexibility in meeting numerical targets and the challenges of implementing new curricula that don't align with school requirements. The group also discussed the impact of SB12 on their ability to conduct surveys and collect data. Noelle acknowledged these issues and promised to bring up the feedback with HHSC to improve future programming and curriculum selection.
Next steps
Summary
Tobacco Compliance and Assignment Updates
The team discussed updates and challenges, with Lakeysha reporting positive progress in measures despite tobacco-related issues and plans for summer activities. John raised a concern about being assigned tobacco compliance check locations outside their service area, which Tasha from REACH addressed by suggesting John's program director contact June at PRC for reassignment or additional locations within their area. The team also noted that some members were on spring break, with Abigail and Carrie being specifically mentioned.
Tobacco Compliance and Audit Updates
The team discussed challenges with tobacco compliance checks, particularly regarding travel and staffing assignments to schools. REACH explained that while quarterly checks are conducted to meet reporting measures, they have been flexible with scheduling and adding new locations to the list. Andrea provided an update on an ongoing program audit, noting that all requested documents had been submitted and the auditors had been following up with additional requests, with a reminder that any new document requests must be submitted 2 days before the deadline.
HHS Audit Proof Submission Process
The group discussed the process of providing proof of quarterly report submissions to HHS during an audit. Andrea explained that she takes screenshots of submissions in CMBHS to show proof, which others in the group confirmed as a common practice. REACH and Terrance shared their methods of saving submission confirmations, with REACH suggesting printing reports with timestamps as an alternative. Noelle mentioned that inefficiencies in CMBHS would be addressed in upcoming Sunset Reviews, and she encouraged the group to provide feedback on suggested improvements.
CMVHS Staffing Form Submission Issues
The team discussed issues with submitting CMVHS staffing forms, where Lakeysha encountered problems submitting early and learned from FBRC that submissions are now restricted to the exact due date per contract requirements. Jennifer and Andrea raised concerns about this policy, with Andrea mentioning she had requested a one-week submission window from the contract manager, though she had not yet received a response. The conversation ended with Noelle asking about social media integration in their programming work, though this topic was not further discussed.
Social Media Campaign Strategy Review
The team discussed social media deliverables, particularly focusing on the Turn 2 campaign which requires minimum posting requirements on Instagram and Facebook. FBRC explained that while they must post the pre-planned campaign content, they also add their own content to improve engagement, as the campaign posts receive the least engagement. Noelle raised concerns about inefficiencies in their current requirements, particularly regarding social media content that may not be effective for their target audience, and expressed interest in discussing this with HHSC to identify and address ineffective requirements.
Referral Strategies and Data Challenges
The team discussed the effectiveness of referrals, with Kendra explaining they are part of CSAP strategies despite low numbers, while Julie noted families are more receptive during family component sessions. The group agreed that positive alternative activities are particularly successful with schools and students, though social media engagement has been challenging with limited reach despite significant time investment. Andrea highlighted confusion around reporting coalition member participation and in-kind hours, suggesting improvements to PAT questions could reduce inconsistent data.
SB12 Curriculum and Data Challenges
The group discussed challenges related to SB12, including difficulties in conducting surveys and applying for grants due to restrictions on data collection. They shared successful workarounds, such as partnering with charter schools and gym teachers, to continue providing services. Kendra and others expressed concerns about the new curriculum requirements, noting that some evidence-based programs like Too Good for Drugs were not included, making it harder to meet performance measures. The group suggested reviewing and potentially revising the curriculum options to better fit the needs of providers and schools.