HOW CAN SCHOOLS PLAN AND IMPLEMENT DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAMS?

The lack of significant success in stemming drug use is almost always due, C. Lynn Fox and others (1987) say, "to an inadequate understanding of both a process and the content of a comprehensive planning and implementation model." They suggest identifying a team of interested, committed staff and community members to carry out the following five phases of a prevention and intervention plan:

* Needs Assessment-utilize surveys, interviews, pretesting,

and attention to contributory social norms and processes to gain

an understanding of root causes, degree, and characteristics of

local drug use.

* Planning Process-prioritize specific goals, organize methods,

and assign tasks.

* Implementation-educate parents, staff, and students; sponsor

drug-free activities; identify and refer substance abusers for

treatment; establish peer support and followup systems.

* Evaluation-examine pre- and post-student data and measure program

effectiveness.

* Dissemination-inform the local community about the program and

request their input.

Among additional strategies for mounting an effective program, Hooper suggests that school leaders carefully evaluate their district's present policies; revise them or develop new ones, as necessary; "involve parents, law enforcement and health officials, drug treatment specialists," and others in shaping those policies; and vigorously enforce the policies. Also, she advises districts to "develop curricula that encourage students to 'say no' to drugs and alcohol."