FIGHTING TEEN DRUG PROBLEMS IN SCHOOLS STARTS FAR CLOSER TO HOME

The fact that some parents question the legitimacy of running drug-sniffing
dogs through their children's schools raises questions about the
effectiveness of their parenting.

Do they not want their children caught if they possess illegal substances?
Do they condone youngsters peddling to others, maybe to even their own
child? Do they not see drug use as a big deal?

Do they even care?

Hardin County's court system prosecuted 55 minors last year for possession
of dope, a 45 percent jump in five years. Who can argue that a problem does
not exist?

The numbers ought to be a wake-up call for parents, even those who do not
suspect trouble with their kids. They need to sit down with their sons and
daughters to outline to them, if they have not already, the dangers of
drugs. Parents should encourage their youngsters to expose illegal activity
to an adult.

And if their children are using, get them help. Parents can be aware of
signs revealing potential usage: hanging out with a bad crowd, changes in
sleep patterns, lack of motivation in school, drastic mood swings.

Granted, 55 minors represent a small portion of the county's total juvenile
population. However, considering the issue involves youngsters doing
something illegal, numbers bear little significance. Any number above zero
is too many, especially when it comes to drugs.

The problem needs eradicating, and it can be. But whether it will be
depends on parents and where they go from here.

Parents should not rely on the education system to police their children.
Unfortunately, educators too often are called upon to perform roles that
transcend the classrom and are the rightful responsibilities of parents.

The onus for a child's social development falls squarely on the shoulders
of their parents. Even so, sometimes good parenting fails. Kids slip
through the cracks and land in the lap of trouble. That's where community
support systems and programs come into play.

There is plenty of truth to the notion that it takes a village to raise a
child. But the nurturing must start at home.