The Campaign will collaborate with NEA, the nation's largest education employee organization, to create substance abuse prevention materials geared to school employees, middle school students and their families. NEA will also use print, satellite, and the Internet to deliver anti-drug messages as part of its work to promote school health and safety.
Recent research shows our efforts toward reducing teen drug use is working.
What's more is that among junior high students, drug use is down 34 percent over the last three years, according to the 2000 Pride survey. While we are pleased with the results, there is much more that can be done, and our partnership with NEA and its teachers, coaches and professionals will be critical. A 1997 survey of teachers and school principals by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse found that 96 percent of principals and 81 percent of teachers believe that teachers should play a role in advising, counseling, or informing students about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. The key is communication and deepening the connection between teachers, students, and parents. This partnership will help educators spot early signs of troubled youth and provide positive alternatives to risky behavior.