Pubdate: Mon, 22 Jan 2001 Source: The North Thompson Star/Journal (CN BC) Copyright: 2001 The North Thompson Star/Journal Contact: http://www.starjournal.net/ Author: Jill Hayward Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) BSS PARENTS RAISE SUBSTANCE ABUSE CONCERNS Barriere Secondary Principle Dord Davis Talks About School Policies Regarding Substance Abuse. Barriere children are being approached on a daily basis at school by other students who are pressuring them to use drugs or alcohol, stated concerned parents at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Barriere Secondary Parents Advisory Committee. BSS Principal Gordon Davis told the group that he had been made aware of parents concerns regarding drugs and alcohol in the school and was prepared to answer their questions and listen to their concerns. "I see this as a community problem, not just the school's," said Davis. "Our kids are being approached on a daily basis, I think we should have a level of zero tolerance in the school environment." stated one parent. "What resources is the school prepared to bring in to rectify this problem?" Principal Davis stated that the school has zero tolerance regarding drugs and alcohol. School policy is dictated by School District 73: Any student found under the influence, in possession or having consumed drugs or alcohol is automatically suspended for 10 days for a first offense. Davis noted second offenses are uncommon. Davis also noted that the school has not caught anyone trafficking in drugs and that if they did, the name of this person would be relayed to the RCMP. Parents reported their children say students in school abuse drugs and alcohol without being recognized or taken to task, that students know the abuse exists regardless of school policy. "Kids are very sophisticated at masking the tell tale signs of abuse and school officials must have proof either by a witness, scent, or other evidence before action can be taken," BSS Vice Principal Lynn Fulton told the group. One parent requested the school supply more volunteers to police the school area. BSS currently has more supervisory support workers than any other school in the district, Davis replied. "A 10-day suspension is a wake-up call for a student and for the parents," said vice principal Fulton. "The reality is that not all parents know what their kids are doing." BSS staff noted that parents must start drug and alcohol policing at home, not only by knowing where and what their children are doing, but also by teaching the children that saying 'no' is okay. If students are approached at school regarding drugs or alcohol, or if they see a fellow student abusing these substances, those students must tell their parents who will in turn approach the school, the group agreed. That way a student will be able to maintain anonymity and not fear retribution from fellow students. "Parents must have the stamina to say no to their children drinking, using drugs or being sexually promiscuous, even though sometimes it is the hardest word to say," noted the school principal. BSS staff and parents agreed that the next step will be to dedicate a meeting to the topic of drug and alcohol abuse only. Guest speakers will be invited to speak on the tell-tale signs, what to look for, what to do, and so on. The principal and two parents present at the meeting agreed to coordinate the meeting and arrange for guest speakers. The date will be announced as soon as preparations are finalized. "I am pleased that parents are concerned and want to get involved," said Davis. - --- MAP posted-by: GD