1. Report prepared for the Rockingham County Public Schools Board of Education Meeting 10/22/12

4. What Role Do Our Schools Play in Substance Abuse Education? All States are mandated to teach substance abuse education. In Virginia, Health SOL’s dictate when students receive education in substance abuse education. Grade One – “Students in grade one learn about their body’s systems and various health topics”. (Standard 1.2) Grade Two – “The students begin to understand the relationship between health behaviors, choices, and consequences. They learn about the harmful effects of drugs,”.

5. What Do We Do in Addition To Teaching the Health Curriculum? (Elementary Schools) 5 th Grader receive a 4-6 week unit on drugs (Mountain View). 5 th Grader Students watch a series of videos in conjunction with the pillar of RESPECT. Videos concentrate on options rather than drugs, family issues, negative effects of drugs. (Peak View Elementary). In October, K-5 students are taught lessons by the counselor on substance abuse, specifically, medicine, peer pressure and family issues. (River Bend Elementary). “The boy who was Swallowed by the Drug Monster”, taught in many of our elementary schools as well as “Just Say NO Clubs”.

6. What Do We Do In Addition To Teaching The Health Curriculum? (Middle Schools) Continuation of Health and Physical Education Curriculum. Meet individually with students and incorporate appropriate county or state agencies if needed. Refer parents and guardians to appropriate county and or state agencies if needed.

7. What Do We Do In Addition To Teaching The Health Curriculum (High Schools) Participation in YADAPP, Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project. Referral to appropriate outside agencies on a individual student basis. “Red Ribbon Week” activities to inform and educate students about drug abuse. “Prom-Season” activities, such as guest speakers, activities, informational activities. “After-Prom Parties”

8. What Are The Next Steps For RCPS? Make more connections between Elementary, Middle and High School Levels in regards to substance abuse education. Discuss and plan substance abuse efforts with RCPS counselors. Introduce S.A.D.D and M.A.D.D. Chapters in all RCPS high schools by 7/13.