Pubdate: Fri, 09 May 2014
Source: Morning Star, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2014 The Morning Star
Contact:  http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1352
Author: Doug Rogers
Page: A26

DRUG EDUCATION STARTS AT HOME

The magnitude of the health and social problems related to drug abuse 
can never be underestimated and we must deal with this issue with all 
resources that we have. In the Vernon school district we take drug 
education very seriously. However we cannot provide substance abuse 
education alone. The fact is, today's youth are particularly 
vulnerable to drug use as they are easily influenced because of their 
age and the constant pro-drug message.

Many of our kids are ill-equipped to deal with these pressures 
effectively. Messages that promote smoking, marijuana use and alcohol 
consumption surround them from a variety of media sources, 
particularly, social media. Our kids are the most valuable assets we 
have and we need to protect them. Education on the dangers of drugs 
is crucial and that message needs to come from home and school. You 
are your child's most important teacher and what you say and do helps 
shape your kids opinion towards substance use and abuse.

Please take some time to help prepare your kids for the situations 
and pressures that they will face. Your opinion matters to your 
children - tell them that you expect them to stay away from drugs and alcohol.

- - Doug Rogers is the Substance Abuse Counsellor for the Vernon school district.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom