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Swampscott holds mandatory meeting to discuss drug use

By Staff Writer

Many kids turn to illicit substances for recreational purposes, but in some communities, the drug problem has spiraled out of control. Swampscott, Massachusetts is one example of a town that is taking proactive measures to reduce substance abuse among teens.

Recently, former Salem schools superintendent Herbert Levine commended Swampscott school officials for calling a mandatory meeting for parents to address the growing drug problem, according to The Salem News. The rate of substance abuse has spiked, and Levine knows first-hand what drugs can do to young adults. The former administrator almost lost his son to OxyContin.

Now, Levine spends his free time educating parents and administrators on the dangers of drugs and how common illicit substance use is among students. Experts say that parents have one of the largest opportunities to positively influence and mentor their kids. By keeping lines of communication open, children may feel more comfortable discussing drugs with their parents and learning about the negative consequences.

More than 29 percent of public high school students say they can easily obtain illicit substances, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Adults can be important role models that help reduce the rate of teen drug use in their local communities.

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