According to the N.C. Center for Health Statistics, roughly 65,000 people were married in N.C. in 2006, and more than half that number divorced.

Now three high schools in Halifax county are part of the Healthy Marriage Demonstration Program which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The course teaches students on how to deal with their emotions and have healthy relationships based on mutuality and respect.

Other North Carolina counties are also applying to have similar courses offered in their schools.

Educators are hoping this course helps reduce the rates of divorce and domestic violence.