The Problem:
Reality: Despite excellence demonstrated in
academics and athletics, the percentage of youth ages 12 to 17
reporting substance abuse in Clay County is staggering.
Research: Data for comparison was
collected in 1993 and 1998 (our children: today and
tomorrow) and 2004 (pride). this data becomes even more
alarming when compared to state and national data for the same age
population.
Law enforcement reports confirm the seriousness
of the problem. Clay County school faculty agrees there is
significant substance abuse by students. parents also agree that
there is significant substance abuse problem by children in the
community, although they tend to deny that their own children are
involved. The presence of Methamphetamine labs in the community,
possession of illegal drugs by students in school, and arrests made
in the community have provided the Coalition with the motivation to
speak out against alcohol and other drug abuse and other destructive
decisions being made by children and their families in Clay County.
It's a community problem, so the whole community needs to help
and solve the problem.
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The Solution:Case Study of
Success: Tobacco-Free Clay County
During the
2003-2004 school year, the Clay County school system initiated a
tobacco-free campus program. When analyzing the data that was
collected, a significant decrease in tobacco use was noted,
confirming the effectiveness of a program when embraced by all
stakeholders.
What's Next?
Drug-Free Clay County
In May 2004, representatives of the school and faith community
met to discuss their concerns of substance abuse in clay county.
This group, under the sponsorship of the Hinton Rural Life Center
[a non-profit organization, 501 (c) (3) 560842073] and the Clay
County Board of Education, became the Coalition
for a Safe and Drug-Free Clay County.
Representation in the coalition includes individuals
throughout the community:
- school
- faith community
- government
- health department
- social services
- law enforcement
- parents
- students
- business
The Coalition has faithfully met twice each
month laying out groundwork to involve the entire community. Town
Hall meetings have been held with the faith community, teachers,
students and the community at large. |