Develop Clear Policies

The U.S. Department of Education (n.d.) makes the following suggestions to schools that are setting drug policy:

"Strong, sound policy is not made in isolation. The more people--students, staff, parents, police, community members--who feel ownership of the policy because they had a hand in shaping it, the more support you build for it from the start.

Since your no-use policy forms the core of your drug prevention program, educators in recognized schools suggest it should:

Clearly prohibit unlawful drug use, possession, and distribution in school and at school functions.
Apply to students, school staff, and any community member attending a school function.
Explain what constitutes a drug offense:
- Define illegal drugs, including alcohol and tobacco products, for students.
- Specify the extent of school jurisdiction; for example, school property and all school-related functions on or outside school grounds.
- Outline types of violations--possession (including storage in lockers), use, under the influence, distribution of drugs/paraphernalia, sale of drugs/paraphernalia.
Identify consequences of student's first offense and of repeated offenses--always including parental notification as part of the procedure--and link punitive action with referrals for treatment and counseling.
Ensure that policies regarding search of students' lockers or persons, suspension, and expulsion are in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. (Consult with your school's attorney to obtain that assurance.)
State the school's position if a student is caught possessing, using, or selling drugs off school grounds during nonschool hours.
Identify the responsibilities of school officials, parents, law enforcement officials, and any others who will implement the policy." (p. 27-28)

Schools should enforce these policies, review them regularly, and update them if necessary. The use of a policy checklist assists schools in developing and maintaining effective prevention policies.

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