SCHOOL BOARD WORRIED ABOUT CRYSTAL METH

The Board of Education of the Moosomin School Division is concerned about
the increasing prevalence of the new drug of choice for young
people--crystal methamphetamine (more commonly known as crystal meth). So
concerned, in fact, that it has arranged for a presentation to all Grade
5-12 students by John and Wanda Watson, who lost their son in a tragic
situation.

The new form of crystal meth is being called the most dangerous drug on the
street, and police consider it even more addictive than crack cocaine. It
is a colorless, odorless form of d-methamphetamine, a powerful and highly
addictive synthetic (man-made) stimulant.

It's taking over our streets and targeting our youth," says Sgt. Jerome
Engele of the Saskatoon Police Integrated Drug Unit. Engele says the amount
of crystal meth has quadrupled since last year and young people are getting
access to it because it is less expensive than other hard drugs.

In fact, Saskatchewan Party MLA Ted Merriman, whose daughter was affected
by crystal meth use, says "people are deluding themselves if they think
crystal meth isn't finding its way into Saskatchewan high schools and even
elementary schools."

Crystal meth resembles small fragments of glass or shiny blue-white "rocks"
of various sizes. The drug, which also goes by the street names of jib,
crank, glass, and ice, is used and abused because of the long-lasting (12
to 24 hours) euphoric effects it produces.

The pleasure users experience is rich and profound, as they feel confident,
powerful, successful, sexy, and joyful. This does not last. Within 24 hours
the user "crashes" and a period of 24 to 36 hours of sleep often follows.
Dramatic and severe symptoms result when prolonged use occurs.

School presentations have been scheduled for Monday, Jan. 10, 2005:

* Rocanville School - 10 a.m. (will include Wapella students).

* McNaughton High School, Moosomin - 1 p.m. (will include MacLeod and
Maryfield students.)

The Board of Education will also be arranging an evening information
session for parents in January or February.

The presentations at the school during the day are free of charge and open
to parents and community members to attend.