Good afternoon West Shore students, staff, and families,

 

Almost one year ago to the exact date (March 11, 2022), I shared an update with our school community regarding safety and substance abuse. As I shared last year, my intent is not to create panic; however, I do want to raise awareness concerning the use of illicit and dangerous substances, in particular fentanyl, by young people in our schools.

 

Recently, we have seen a significant increase in students vaping nicotine and other substances. Even more concerning, students are regularly sharing their vaping devices and using them to vape THC and other illegal drugs. On occasion, these substances have been laced with potentially fatal drugs, such as fentanyl, with or without the student’s knowledge.

 

Today, two doses of Narcan were administered to a Red Land High School student after the student collapsed in the cafeteria. Fortunately, after the second dose, the student became responsive. We are extremely grateful for our nurses’ rapid recognition and response to this situation. Their quick reaction and the quick response we received from Fairview Township EMS, likely saved this child’s life. 

 

I share the details of this incident to address what I expect are questions that you or your child may have about today. I also share this information in the hope that you will talk to your child about the dangers of sharing electronic smoking devices and more specifically about fentanyl. I have included some links below to assist your family in having these important (but sometimes difficult) conversations.

 

 
Additionally, if your child is struggling and you would like to speak with someone, we will do everything we can to support you. Please contact your child’s principal or school counselor so we can provide your family with support. Some additional resources available for your use include:

 

Lastly, please remind your children that anyone can anonymously report incidents or actions that may pose a danger to their classmates or their school through Safe2Say Something. As I have said before, school safety is a shared responsibility, and it will take all of us working together to keep our children safe and healthy. Thank you for your partnership in these efforts.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Todd B. Stoltz, Ed.D.

Superintendent

#WestShoreProud