Three high schools in Edenvale have taken a proactive approach to tackling drugs in their schools.
Edenvale High School, Edenglen High School and Dowerglen High School have policies in place that aim to assist pupils who use drugs both recreationally and habitually.
The NEWS met with principals, Dr Larry Harmer, Mr Trevor Weinerlein and Ms Lisa Dowds, following an article published in the May 20 edition.
A small amount of drugs were found during a recent drug search at Edenglen High School.
“We have regular tutorships where we identify possible problems in the school,” said the principal of Edenvale High School, Dr Harmer.
If problems are identified, random drugs tests are carried out in the school.
The tests used detect a wide range of narcotics and the costs of the tests are covered by the schools.
“If drugs are found in the child’s system, an intervention is launched and the child is suspended until such time as they can produce proof that an appointment has been set with the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA),” said Dr Harmer.
“We are aware that there is a problem in all schools in Edenvale and we have chosen to take a proactive approach,” he said.
This approach was implanted by the school several years ago.
“The process the schools follow is a strict one,” said the principal for Dowerglen High School, Ms Lisa Dowds.
In addition, Edenvale High School also implemented a hotline number which pupils can use to anonymously relay tip-offs to senior staff members.
“There are no repercussions for false information,” said Dr Harmer.
“We believe that drug abuse is not only a problem in schools, it is also a societal issue,” said Mr Weinerlein, the principal at Edenglen High School.
Dowerglen High School and Edenglen High School both have mentorship programmes, which enable pupils to pass information to teachers.
The three school heads agreed that a key to minimising drug use by children is adequate parental supervision.
“Most parents who find out their child is using drugs are horrified. Others suspect their children are using drugs but are too afraid to break their child’s trust so they say nothing,” said Ms Dowds.
“Some parents are angry when they find out and are supportive of the school,” said Mr Weinerlein.
For families who cannot afford the costly exercise of rehabilitation centres, or other outpatient programmes, the Department of Education also has a programme which will assist families.
“Parents need to be more aware of their children’s activities. They need to be more informed of what is happening in the community and their children’s lives. The key is for parents to be informed; to know what the latest drug trends are,” said Ms Dowds.
She added that parents should be able to identify changes in their child.
“Schools have become more proactive but the children also need to make the right choices,” said Mr Weinerlein.
All three schools believe that only a minority of pupils are involved in drug-related activities.
“We are seeing an increase in other pupils willing to rat out their peers who are bringing down the name of the school,” said Dr Harmer.
Parents who would like more information about the various programmes available can their child’s school.
