Drug, Alcohol, & Threat Prevention
Randolph-Henry High School
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to bring to your attention the significance of Virginia Executive Order 28, which addresses the critical issue of opioids and their impact on our community. The opioid epidemic is a serious public health concern affecting individuals and families across the nation, and it is crucial for us to work together to address this challenge. In Virginia, drug overdoses are the leading cause of unnatural death and have been since 2013. More Virginians die every year from overdoses than from automobile crashes. Opioids - specifically fentanyl - has been the driving force behind the large increases. In 2021, fentanyl contributed to 76.4% of all Virginia overdose deaths. It was estimated that 98% of these fatal fentanyl overdoses in Virginia were caused by the illicit, rather than prescription, version of the drug. Awareness and education are two of the best defenses against opioid misuse and overdose.
Executive Order 28 Overview:
Virginia Executive Order 28 was issued to enhance efforts in combating the opioid crisis. The Executive Order directed the Department of Education to issue guidance regarding best practices to support decision-making protocols for school leaders, developing parent notification protocols, and reinforcing best practices.
Available Resources:
We understand the importance of providing resources and support to those affected by substance abuse. There are numerous resources available in this newsletter to assist individuals and families in our community.
Prevention Programs: Education and prevention programs play a crucial role in addressing drug misuse. Students can expect to hear more about drug and alcohol prevention at school during health classes, over the school announcements, on the Parent Square app, and during other enrichment opportunities.
As we navigate these challenges together, our school remains committed to supporting our students and families. If you have any concerns or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school counselors, school nurse, SRO, or administration.
We appreciate your partnership in creating a safe and healthy environment for our students.
Sincerely,
Erin Davis
Principal
Randolph-Henry High School
Drug and Alcohol Prevention Lessons during Health/PE Classes & Health Occupations Courses.
"Game Time" messaging about substance abuse and mental health topics airs at all home sporting events. (Sponsored by Crossroads)
Morning and afternoon announcements are read about important school safety topics to include vaping and other illegal substances.
Posters are displayed around campus to educate students on the dangers of vapes, THC, and other harmful substances.
Guest Speakers and videos for School Wide Assemblies and Intervention/Enrichment Time
Community Partners such as Crossroads Prevention Services are invited to our Back to School Night to share resources with parents and students.
Arrive Alive Campaign in April in Preparation for Prom
Guest Speakers for IE
School Announcements
Car Simulations w/ State Police
Student Contests
Hosting an After Prom Party
Parent Newsletters and Online Resources
An annual focus on drug education, school wide. Videos, infographics and other resources will be shared with students and with parents via the Parent Square App and school webpage.
- Curb The Crisis
- Hiding in Plain Sight:
- Today Show, Hiding in Plain Sight: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLSo9L4uOkw
- A Parent’s Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEz7rvY9IjE
- Virginia Rules: https://virginiarules.org/varules_topics/opioids/
- Be Blunt Start the Conversation https://www.beblunt.org/effects-on-the-body
- VDOE Preventing & Reducing Youth Substance Misuse
https://www.doe.virginia.gov/programs-services/student-services/prevention-strategies-programs/alcohol-drug-tobacco-use - Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Behavioral Threat Asessment Resource Toolkit for K-12 Parents. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/behavioral-threat-assessment-resource-toolkit-k-12-virginia-parents
