This project intends to design, test, promote, implement, evaluate and maintain a web-based “Alternative to Punitive Discipline Substance Abuse” program for Colorado Schools.

This program will offer a healing-centered alternative for students who have violated a school or community cannabis policy. The Office of Behavioral Health in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Public Health Training Center and the Hub for Justice Centered Youth Engagement will work over a four-year period (2021-2024) to collate existing data, collect additional data from key stakeholders, identify root causes of cannabis use in youth, meet with school officials, and bring youth and the disciplinary officials together in conversation around the health and wellbeing of affected youth.

Our intended outcome is for this program to be implemented statewide offering a reflective and healing centered option for youth found using cannabis in school or in the community to disrupt punitive policies and the school to prison pipeline.