SCHOOL DISTRICT TARGETING STUDENT DRUG USE

School District 73 has seen an increase in drug-related suspensions over
the past few years, reports John Harwood, school trustee for the
Clearwater-Blue River area.

In 1997-98 there were 73 drug-related suspensions; last year there were 197
- -- nearly three times the number. It's a trend that has been seen across
the province, said Harwood.

There was no breakdown in the numbers to indicate if the North Thompson
Valley was better or worse than the rest of the school district, he noted.

Of concern was the changing nature of the drugs being used, with more crack
cocaine and amphetamines being found.

Trustees are also worried about the age of those involved, with students as
young as Grade 6 being caught with drugs.

School superintendent Terry Sullivan has put together a superintendent's
committee to look into the situation.

Its members include representation from students, principals, the RCMP,
city council, an addictions counselor and various community youth and
health agencies.

The committee will meet at the end of the month and periodically throughout
the year. Sullivan said it will have an action plan in place by the end of
the school year.