Pubdate: Fri, 26 Aug 2005 Source: Peace Arch News (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 Peace Arch News Contact: http://www.peacearchnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1333 Author: Lara Gerrits NEW DISTRICT POSITIONS 'BRIDGE GAP' ON DRUGS Surrey School District has a number of new initiatives this year, including five positions to tackle substance use among youth. District spokesman Doug Strachan said the substance use liaison program, a first for Surrey, will offer youth and families support through education, referrals and monthly "connection" meetings for parents. "They have extensive experience working with youth," he said. "They'll be able to provide resources for families, and not just students." Spearheaded by safe schools manager Theresa Campbell, the program will have close association with Surrey RCMP. "Essentially, what we're trying to do is bridge the gaps between school, home and the community," Campbell said. "We want to expand the work we're doing and provide additional intervention and support to students and families." She said each liaison will be designated to one area of the district, rotating among its schools to develop relationships with students to help detect drug trends. The liaisons will also provide educational presentations, advice and referrals to youth and parents. "We're really trying to bring the community together," she said, adding the liaisons could also help identify other needs within the city regarding substance use prevention and intervention. Campbell is coordinator behind Protecting Surrey School Together, a website (www.psst-bc.ca) offering youth chance to anonymously report concerns such as bullying, while promoting school safety. Launched last year, the website was a first in Canada. In addition to welcoming a new superintendent, Mike McKay, and secretary treasurer, Wayne Noye, the district is implementing a few more changes this September. Surrey Traditional School now offers a Grade 12 curriculum, making it the only traditional school offering Grades 1 to 12. The district's Punjabi language program has also expanded - now offered at Princess Margaret and Tamanawis secondary schools in addition to Beaver Creek, Strawberry Hill and Newton elementaries. "This will be the first time at the secondary level," Strachan said. For information, visit www.sd36.bc.ca - --- MAP posted-by: Elizabeth Wehrman