In order to raise drug and alcohol awareness, Principal Weeton will hold a drug and alcohol forum for students’ parents and community members Thursday.
“We will inform parents that they are breaking the law if they allow underage consumption,” said Weeton.
According to junior Robert Earl, it is easy to access alcohol in Leaguetown and the parents may be at blame, so Weeton plans to make that known to them.
“Parents must understand that we have a drug and alcohol problem at Leaguetown.” said Weeton.
As reported by a survey in January, more than 65 percent of kids can obtain alcohol easily, which Weeton will also hit at the meeting.
“I think many parents are ignoring the signs that their children may be using drugs and alcohol.” said Weeton.
According to Senior Kiki Deeds, her parents even agree to pay for a cab if she will be drinking at a party. Which goes back to Weeton thinking parents may be ignoring the fact their kids are using.
“You can get alcohol any weekend in Leaguetown,” said Earl.
The easy access to alcohol could potentially start an abuse or addiction to these drugs and alcohol, which reflects back to parents being aware of the issue at hand.
“It took his parents a long time to recognize his problems,” said Weeton about Sam White, a 1999 Leaguetown graduate who will be speaking at the forum.
Had his parents acted faster, he may have gone to rehab much earlier. Which ties in with parents needing to be aware to help their kids.
“In the past, I think we brushed the problem under the rug,” said Weeton.
With Weeton organizing a series of speakers for this month and the forum, will raise awareness of drug and alcohol consumption to the parents and community members.
“I hope every Leaguetown parent and community member attends the meeting Thursday. It is that important.” said Weeton.
