Substance Use Prevention & Intervention

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

As we continue to strive for a safe and productive learning environment for all students, it is important to address the issue of drugs and alcohol and their impact on our schools. Substance use among students not only affects their health and academic performance but also poses significant challenges to school safety and discipline.

Impact on Learning and Safety

• Academic Performance: Substance use can lead to decreased focus, impaired memory, and lower academic achievement. Students who use drugs or alcohol are more likely to skip classes and perform poorly on exams and assignments.

• Safety: The presence of drugs on campus can create an unsafe environment. It can lead to violence, bullying, and other forms of misconduct, affecting the overall sense of security for all students.

• Discipline: Schools face increased disciplinary issues related to substance use, including suspensions and expulsions, which disrupt the educational process and strain school resources.

Understanding the Reality

While it is important to acknowledge that most students will not use drugs or become addicted, the presence of drugs on campus can still have a significant impact on the school environment and the well-being of all students. Here are some of the ways this affects students:

• Peer Pressure: Students may feel pressured to use substances to fit in or be accepted by their peers.

• Stress and Anxiety: The presence of drugs and alcohol can contribute to increased stress and anxiety among students who are trying to avoid these substances.

Substance use can disrupt the learning environment, affecting students who are committed to their education. Schools and communities across the country are grappling with the pervasive issue of drugs and alcohol on campus. We are committed to partnering with students, educators, parents, and community substance use prevention systems to create a safe and healthy learning environment for all.

What can you do? 

Preventing drug and alcohol use in schools requires a collaborative effort among parents, teachers, and mental health professionals. Here are some ways we can work together:

• Maintain open and honest communication with youth about the dangers of substance use and the importance of making healthy choices. 

• We can learn about drugs and dangers of using to help talk to youth. 

• We can also identify and support students who may be at risk of substance use, providing them with the necessary resources and intervention.

By working together, we can create a safer, healthier, and more supportive environment for our students. Let’s commit to keeping our schools drug-free and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

AUHSD Team