Substance Use Prevention
On March 14, 2016, Governor Baker signed the "Substance Use Prevention and Education Law" (M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 96). As a result of this legislation, every school district in the state is required to develop and implement a policy regarding substance use prevention and education of its students.
On September 7, 2016, the Auburn School Committee approved the District policy which has been submitted to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
The Auburn Public Schools is committed to working closely with students, families, staff and the community to educate all stakeholders on the warning signs of substance use and abuse.
As always, you are encouraged to reach out to your child's school if you have any questions or concerns. Below the policy are four helpful memos that parents are encouraged to carefully read. For more information and resources on preventing substance misuse, please visit the following or contact your child's school:
- Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse offers a number of free health education resources from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. https://massclearinghouse.ehs.state.ma.us/
- Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education Helpline provides free and anonymous information and referrals for alcohol and other substance use problems. http://helpline-online.com/ or 1-800-327-5050
- Bureau of Substance Abuse Services, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, oversees treatment for substance use disorders in the Commonwealth. http://www.mass.gov/dph/bsas
- National Institute for Drug Abuse (part of the National Institutes of Health) is charged with advancing the science of addiction and provides the latest research and resources. https://www.drugabuse.gov/