Drug Abuse Policy

Students must not use, sell, distribute, possess, or be under the influence of drugs, including alcohol, on school property or during school-sponsored activities unless the drug has been prescribed by a physician for the individual student. The principal or school nurse must be notified by the parent or physician of any student who is taking medication. Students also must be made aware that there is a Maryland law (Article 27, Section 286B) dealing with the possession, distribution, etc., of non-controlled substances as controlled dangerous substances look-alikes.

Students who have alcohol or other drug problems are urged to discuss their problems with school staff members. School staff will respect the student's right to privacy.

Staff, parents, and students may not use tobacco on school property.

The BCPSS, as a recipient of federal funding, is required to inform all employees, students, and parents about Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Workplace mandates and sources of information.

Educational Programs

1. Age-appropriate, developmentally-based, drug abuse prevention education programs must be available at every grade level, in every school.
2. Programs must address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use and must provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use drugs.
3. Drug education materials for student use must be reviewed by an advisory board. No materials that condone or promote illegal drug use should be purchased, used, or allowed in schools.
4. Referrals for rehabilitation, counseling, and support services for students with drug use problems must be made to appropriate sources.

Student Behavior

1. Use of illicit drugs, including the unlawful use of alcohol and tobacco, is illegal and harmful for students and prohicited on school grounds. Also prohibited is the possession of all lighting materials such as lighters and matches.
2. There should be no use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs or tobacco or alcohol by students on school premises or at any school activity.
3. Students who violate this procedure face disciplinary action, including expulsion, as well as possible legal penalties.

Parents

All programs, guidelines, services, standards of conduct, and disciplinary sanctions must be made known to parents.

Staff

1. There should be no use, possession, or distribution by any employee of illicit drugs or alcohol in the school and/or workplace or at school activities.
2. There is to be no use of tobacco products or distribution to students in the school and/or workplace or at school activities.
3. Persons who violate this procedure face legal action and risk termination of employment.
4. Employees who need services related to drug/alcohol use should be able to seek help through the Baltimore City Public School System Employee Assistance Program provided by the American Psychiatric System at 888-454-7540.

Where to Call for Information

Drug Education, Prevention and Intervention Programs:
Drug Abuse and Violence Prevention Unit
410-545-0930

Support Services for Students:
Office of Student Services
410-396-8908

Disciplinary Action for Students:
Suspension Services
410-396-8643