Dear Goshen Schools family,
In light of recent substance abuse related incidents at Goshen High School, I’d like to share the different approaches we have taken this school year to help educate our students and families about the dangers of substance abuse.
As in previous years, the District is working with the Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Council of Orange County (ADAC) to offer programs for Goshen families to help combat the substance abuse issue plaguing the youth of our community and around the country:
On March 10, Goshen High School hosted a presentation entitled The Hidden Mischief Presentation about the dangers and warning signs of the most used drugs by teens in our area. This included a mock bedroom that parents can tour virtually to help identify hiding places for drugs in teen’s bedrooms.
During the week of April 25- 29, Goshen High School will host How to Help a Friend. Presenters will be speaking directly to students in English Language Arts Classes about the dangers of vaping, THC and pills. They will also discuss how to identify whether someone is using and/or under the influence and the ways to get them help.
On May 12 for students attending the Senior Trip, and May 25 for students attending the Senior Prom, students and parents will be required to view the film If They Had Known which depicts the true life events of a young man’s accidental death after mixing prescription medications with alcohol while partying with friends — bringing to light how one bad decision can have devastating effects.
Substance abuse is an ongoing battle throughout the country. We will continue to work with ADAC to bring resources to all of our students and their families and continuously put preventive strategies in place for the community. I encourage our families to continue this important conversation at home. We must work together to keep our children safe.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kurtis Kotes
Superintendent of Schools
