File: JICH

STUDENT DRUG/ALCOHOL ABUSE

The Agawam School Committee recognizes that the use of drugs/alcohol illegally and/or inappropriately constitutes a hazard to the positive development of students, and that the welfare of certain students is being compromised by drug/alcohol-related problems.

Accordingly, the School Committee shall attempt to clarify through this policy and the accompanying administrative rules the rights and responsibilities of the principals, teachers, students and parents in dealing with the complex legal, social, educational and emotional conditions associated with drug/alcohol use and abuse.

At the same time, the Committee shall attempt to make clear the different forms of actions which, depending upon the severity of a drug/alcohol-related incident, must be taken and those which shall be left to the discretion of the principal, teachers and students.

While the Committee cannot and shall not allow the sale, use or possession of illegal drugs/alcohol on school property, the Committee strongly desires to demonstrate its abiding concern for the welfare of an individual student and the general welfare of the school population by offering expert, continued and supportive advice and counsel to its students.

In cases where a student violates this policy by the use of drugs/alcohol illegally within the school boundaries or within the school or is involved in the sale, possession or exchange of drugs/alcohol within the school or within the school boundaries, the student will be disciplined in accordance with the School Committee approved rules governing student drug/alcohol abuse.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent, or designee, to inform school personnel, students and parents of this policy and related administrative regulations. Copies of these statements shall be provided to students and parents upon request.