Pubdate: Wed, 12 Dec 2001 Source: Okotoks Western Wheel (CN AB) Copyright: 2001, Okotoks Western Wheel Contact: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1638 Website: http://www.westernwheel.com/ Author: Cindy Ballance, Editor DRUG PROBLEMS ARE COMMUNITY ISSUE Drug problems have existed in the community for generations, but it seems only now have they become a public concern. For years the issue of drugs, and those illegally using them, was once whispered behind closed doors especially when it involved students. But now, with more education, awareness and discussions, the issue of drugs and alcohol has become a kitchen-table discussion among parents and children and a front-of-the-class one between teachers and students. Although there may be more discussion and education about the ill affects of drug and alcohol abuse in order to give children the tools to make healthy choices, the issue is still a sensitive one and one local high school is dealing with it firsthand. Foothills Composite High School in Okotoks has been dealing with drug and alcohol problems for some time, but most recently it has been brought out into the open. About 15 to 20 students were recently suspended or voluntarily withdrew from the school for using drugs or having drug paraphernalia in their possession. The high school administration and teachers could have chosen to keep the incidents of drug use to themselves (in spite of the infamous rumor mill) and protect the school's reputation. They could have dealt with the problems internally or pretended it didn't exist. But, on the contrary, they did just the opposite. While still protecting its students, the school brought the issue of drug use to the forefront despite what it may do to the school's reputation. Their motives - to address the issues, bring awareness to the community and to boldly relay the message: Drug use in schools will not be tolerated. Principal of the school Harry Morrison said that drug use will not be condoned - he is determined to protect the students and ensure that they receive the highest level of education. What the principal and the school administration did by their actions was to become advocates for drug-free schools. While some may believe that suspending 15-20 students from school for drug use is a indication of the school's education, tolerance or surveillance levels, there are another 800 or so other students in the school who are still receiving quality education and now, since the suspensions, receiving much-needed awareness about the use of drugs. Although the Comp may be the first to make public the issues of drugs at its school, it is not the first school with drug and alcohol problems. Even though the magnitude may vary, the hard truth is that drug problems exist in every school and in every community. Use of illegal drugs is communal and begins at a child's bedroom door. To make positive changes in the attitudes of children towards drug use, the community as a whole needs to be proactive and not condone one school for publically admitting its problems, but commend them for taking action to rectify them. The drug issue is not one to be whispered about behind closed doors - opening the passage of communication and awareness for students will have much better results. - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk