OH: Ohio Attorney General proposes new way of teaching about drugs and alcohol
By Janet Rogers, Reporter
June 19, 2018
BOARDMAN, Ohio – Schools across the country are using less scare tactics when it comes to teaching students about illegal drugs and alcohol.
In Boardman for the last four years, the Brain Power program has been incorporated at no cost to the district, into health class, biology, chemistry and other classes that have a natural tie-in.
The Director of Instruction for Boardman Schools Jared Cardillo said, “Instead of saying no to drugs you use the approach here’s what it can do to your body and I think that’s eye-opening for students.”
He tells us Boardman School District takes extra steps to make sure students have great activities they can say yes to.
The curriculum is taught in grades kindergarten through 12th with the goal of starting when kids are young and reinforcing that message each year.
The district has also partnered at no cost with Alta and Meridian Health Care.
A certified addiction specialist Karen Kannal said, “I think we have more children whose parents are incarcerated for drug addiction and more parents that are active addicts in the home environment. There is a need for comprehensive wrap-around services.”
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine promoted districts using 12 steps in a guideline called, “Drug Use Prevention Educational Resource Guide,” to change their school programs so mock crashes, and testimonials that don’t work are replaced with programs that evidence shows does work to help reach children and teens.
This so they can make the best choices for their lives.
Boardman schools were singled out for using programs that research shows are more effective at reaching students.