Dist. 211 community session to focus on drug abuse awareness

Students are often challenged by social pressures to experiment with drugs and other substances. The response to these challenges can have life-altering impact and frequently test young people's abilities to understand long-term consequences.

High School District 211's next Community Education Session is from 7-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 19, at Conant High School, 700 E. Cougar Trail in Hoffman Estates, and will focus on student wellness, drug use and abuse, and the impact personal decisions can have for students.

"Not unlike most communities throughout our nation, our students' access to and use of illicit and prescription drugs are an unfortunate and increasing reality. Many of our students are confronted with challenging social decisions that can have lasting and impactful implications," said Matthew Hildebrand, director of Administrative Services at District 211. "District 211 is committed to working with local agencies to bring awareness to this issue, help students make healthy choices, and support all of our students and families. We are pleased to provide this opportunity to provide information to our community and engage in a dialogue about this important topic."

Representatives from Kenneth Young Center and Schaumburg Police Department will discuss and review current trends concerning students' access to, use, and abuse of narcotics and prescription medications. Chelsea Laliberte, executive director of Live4Lali, an organization founded in her brother's memory and dedicated to the prevention of drug-related deaths, will join this discussion as a guest speaker. The session is designed to help parents and caregivers have greater awareness of warning signs so that connections to early intervention can be established.

For information, visit the district's website adc.d211.org/event/community-education-student-wellness-drug-use-abuse.