RE: Grade 8 & 10 Verbal Screening

Dear Parents and Legal Guardians of Students in Grades 8 and 10,
 
In early December, I communicated to you that in compliance with MGL Chapter 71, Section 96 & 97, our school system would be conducting verbal screenings of students in grades 8 and 10. The intent of this screening is to help prevent students from beginning the use of alcohol, marijuana and other drugs, along with providing assistance to students if they are currently using such substances.
 
The verbal screening of students in grades 8 and 10 will take place on the following dates:
 
Blanchard Middle School February 26 & 27 and March 1 & 2
Stony Brook Middle School March 5, 6 and 7
Westford Academy March 19 – 23
 
Students who are not using substances will have their healthy choices reinforced by the screener. The screener will provide brief feedback to any student who reports using substances, or who is at risk for future substance use. If needed, we will refer students to our counseling staff for further evaluation. This program focuses on substance use prevention and does not generate disciplinary action.~Results of the screening will not be included in your student’s school record. The screening is voluntary, and students may choose not to answer any or all of the screening questions.
 
As with any school screening, you have the right to opt your child out of this screening. To opt-out, please complete the attached opt-out form and return it to your child’s school nurse no later than Monday, February 26, 2018.
 
I ask that you discuss this screening with your child along with the importance of avoiding substance abuse. Additional information may be found at the links below.
 
Sincerely,
 
Everett V. Olsen, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools
 
Additional information may be found at the links below: