4401 -ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

Philosophy A serious substance abuse problem exists both nationally and in our community. It is not confined to the adult population, but exists among our young people as well. When students are involved with alcohol and other drug abuse there is interference not only with their academic and co-curricular activities, but also with their emotional, physical, mental, and social development.

The Durham Public School system recognizes that a person's use of alcohol and other drugs can lead to the illness of chemical dependency. The Durham Public School system accepts its shared role with the community in addressing this problem by initiating a prevention and early intervention program and supporting referral and treatment programs. These programs can restore to individuals and their families the ability to achieve their fullest potential in school, at their jobs, and in their lives.

4401.1 Prevention It is the goal of Durham Public Schools to create a caring, drug-free school environment by supporting a strong continuum of care, and by instituting a comprehensive K-12 curriculum. Students and their families are encouraged to seek help voluntarily with any type substance abuse problem. Our schools prohibit the use of prohibited substances on school campuses and at school activities.

The purpose of this policy is to recognize our obligation to lead in the establishment of a positive, drug-free educational environment in which problems can be addressed in a healthful and supportive atmosphere.

4401.2 Intervention Disciplinary action shall take place when a student is found to be in violation of the Code of Student Conduct (policy 4301) relating to the possession, sale, use, and/or distribution of a prohibited substance on school property, or at school sponsored affairs. Mandatory in-school or out-of-school suspension, assessment, and/or appropriate support services will be required depending on the specific violation.

4401.3 Support Services Upon re-entry of any student completing treatment, that student shall be included in the school-based student support group, unless involved in private counseling outside the school system. This will be an essential component in the recovery process.

4401.4 Implementation The Superintendent or designee is authorized to develop and oversee procedures to implement this policy.

Legal Reference: G.S.115C-391 Cross References: Code of Student Conduct, Disposal of Confiscated Weapons, Drugs or Alcohol, Suspension and Expulsion
Adopted Effective: December 8, 1993
Revised Effective: July 1, 1999