Improving school discipline to prevent opioid misuse among youth

Preventing School Exclusion and Opioid Misuse: Effectiveness of the Inclusive Skill-building Learning Approach (ISLA)

NIH-funded research University of Oregon · NIH-10936525

This study is testing a new way to help middle schools be more supportive and fair, aiming to reduce unfair discipline practices that can hurt students' learning and well-being, and it's for schools looking to create a better environment for all students.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oregon NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Eugene, United States)
Project IDNIH-10936525 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach called the Inclusive Skill-building Learning Approach (ISLA) aimed at reducing exclusionary discipline in schools, which has been linked to negative outcomes like lower academic achievement and increased substance misuse. By implementing ISLA in 60 middle schools across six states, the project seeks to create a more supportive educational environment that promotes equity and reduces biased interactions between educators and students. The effectiveness of this approach will be evaluated through a randomized controlled trial, focusing on student outcomes from the end of 6th grade to the end of 8th grade.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle school students, particularly those at risk of exclusionary discipline and substance misuse.

Not a fit: Students who are not enrolled in the participating middle schools or those not facing issues related to exclusionary discipline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved academic performance and reduced substance misuse among middle school students.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions aimed at reducing exclusionary discipline can lead to positive outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Eugene, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.