Town Hall to Address Youth Drug and Alcohol Issues

It’s no secret: Drugs and alcohol abuse among teens is a significant issue in Santa Cruz County. In an effort to combat this problem, Aptos High School administrators have enlisted the help of local experts and community groups to educate parents, teens, teachers, and community members in the detection, prevention, and treatment of teen substance abuse.

A panel of experts from our community including Santa Cruz County Friday Night Live Partnership, Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance, The California Highway Patrol, and The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to speak and answer questions from attendees.  Small groups will have an opportunity to discuss issues with the panel members. It is highly recommended that students attend with their parents/guardians. Aptos High School students can earn community service hours by attending.   

Aptos High School Administration is committed to helping the students they lead, “Teen substance abuse not only affects the teen that is ‘using’, it also has a detrimental effect on the learning environment of their classmates, strains relationships, and can be excruciating for families.  The goal of Aptos High School is to better equip teens and the adults in their lives with knowledge about these issues.”

Discussion topics include trends in marijuana, alcohol, and prescription drug use as well as suggestions/recommendations for coping/ addressing these issues with young adults.

What: Town Hall to Address Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse.  Spanish translation is provided. Child care is also available.

When: Thursday, November 15, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Aptos High School Performing Arts Center, 100 Mariner Way, Aptos CA

Who: Community members, parents, students, school representatives, business owners, law enforcement, government officials, media, faith based organizations, and community based organizations.