Tiverton School Committee discusses substance use trends and diversions program success
October 23, 2024 | Tiverton, Newport County, Rhode Island
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The Tiverton School Committee meeting on October 23, 2024, focused on several key issues, including the acceptance of a donation for the high school journalism club and a review of the school’s diversion program aimed at addressing substance use among students.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the approval of a $250 donation from Newport Propane to support the Tiverton High School Journalism Club. The donation will help cover fees for an upcoming national journalism convention. The committee expressed gratitude to the Sherman family for their contribution.
The meeting also featured a detailed presentation on the diversion program, which has been in place for six to seven years. This program aims to address substance use among students by providing support rather than punishment. Principal Craven and Student Assistance Counselor Kelsey Vasconcellos discussed the program's success in keeping students engaged in school while addressing issues related to vaping, alcohol, and drug use. Vasconcellos noted a significant increase in the number of students seeking help, indicating both a rise in substance use and a growing comfort among students to report their issues.
Vasconcellos highlighted that many students are using marijuana, particularly in the form of vape cartridges, which has become more prevalent in recent months. She emphasized the importance of education and open communication about substance use, noting that many students are unaware of the risks associated with their behaviors. The committee acknowledged the need for ongoing monitoring of these trends and the importance of collaboration with local prevention coalitions to enhance support for students.
Overall, the meeting underscored the school committee's commitment to addressing substance use among students through supportive measures and community engagement, while also recognizing the challenges posed by increasing substance use trends in the school environment. The committee plans to revisit these issues later in the year to assess the effectiveness of current strategies and make necessary adjustments.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the approval of a $250 donation from Newport Propane to support the Tiverton High School Journalism Club. The donation will help cover fees for an upcoming national journalism convention. The committee expressed gratitude to the Sherman family for their contribution.
The meeting also featured a detailed presentation on the diversion program, which has been in place for six to seven years. This program aims to address substance use among students by providing support rather than punishment. Principal Craven and Student Assistance Counselor Kelsey Vasconcellos discussed the program's success in keeping students engaged in school while addressing issues related to vaping, alcohol, and drug use. Vasconcellos noted a significant increase in the number of students seeking help, indicating both a rise in substance use and a growing comfort among students to report their issues.
Vasconcellos highlighted that many students are using marijuana, particularly in the form of vape cartridges, which has become more prevalent in recent months. She emphasized the importance of education and open communication about substance use, noting that many students are unaware of the risks associated with their behaviors. The committee acknowledged the need for ongoing monitoring of these trends and the importance of collaboration with local prevention coalitions to enhance support for students.
Overall, the meeting underscored the school committee's commitment to addressing substance use among students through supportive measures and community engagement, while also recognizing the challenges posed by increasing substance use trends in the school environment. The committee plans to revisit these issues later in the year to assess the effectiveness of current strategies and make necessary adjustments.
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