Dealing with student drug and alcohol abuse was a heavy responsibility for the teachers in my small, Northern B.C. high school. Like most schools, there was a 'zero-tolerance' policy for drug or alcohol use on school property. Any evidence of such activity would result in immediate expulsion of the student. It seemed that all policies to promote healthy living in the school system were not enough of a deterrent to keep youth from succumbing to the peer pressure involving drug and alcohol exploration. I found that most of the expelled students would only get in to more trouble, drop out and add to the crime and unemployment rate. Basically, any chance of a successful life became extremely difficult for them.
As a teacher, I fully understand the need to keep illegal activity out of the schools; however, I also know that it is my responsibility to promote healthy futures for all of my students. If expulsion is the main policy to deal with these deep rooted issues, how can we ever expect change? I am not suggesting a tolerance or an indifference to the the use of drugs or alcohol in youth, I am only questioning the static approaches to deal with these obstacles. I am interested in any opinions you all may have in overcoming this barrier.
Thanks,
Ellie
1 comment:
Definitely an interesting, and very realistic, topic. A quick search turned up this.
I didn't read the entire article, but the charts were indicative enough for me.
I agree with the "zero-tolerance" policy when talking about possession/consumption on school grounds, during school time, or sanctioned events (dances, etc). The fact that a student would show up to class/events intoxicated shows a complete lack of respect for the school, staff, and other students. However, I'm not sure that expulsion is always the most suitable punishment. Not a likely explanation, but possible (third hand experience), what if the student is abusing substances because they are abused at home? Is making them stay at home going to help?
Whatever the reason, the student obviously needs to be separated from peers during class time - class disruptions, bad influence, etc. But adding more load to the probable lack of supervision at home isn't going to help. Maybe for first offense, an in-school suspension would be a better policy. Two strikes, then you're out. Maybe enforced counseling programs? Maybe continued consultation and monitoring with the parents help?
Post a Comment