Safe & Drug Free Schools Federal Program

The Safe & Drug Free Schools and Communities Title IV program provide funds to support drug and violence prevention activities that: promote the health and well being of students in elementary and secondary schools; prevent the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs; and involves parents and communities in prevention efforts. These funds have been authorized by the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1984 in order to adopt and carry out comprehensive drug and violence prevention programs that are coordinated with related Federal, State, school and community efforts and resources to foster a safe and drug-free learning environment that supports student academic success. This federal grant provides funding to 21 school districts in ESD 123 region for the following activities:

• Counseling, mentoring and referral services including Prevention/Intervention Specialist services;
  
• Professional development on drug and violence prevention at reduced fees;
  
• Drug and violence prevention that is developmentally appropriate;
  
• Conflict resolution and peer mediation;
  
• Law enforcement and security activities.

Program and services funded through Safe & Drug Free Schools must follow the Federal Principles of Effectiveness, ensure that private schools have an option to participate and receive input from students, parents, and others on prevention of drug and violence issues.

ESD 123 provides technical assistance to 23 school districts in our region. Services include, but are not limited to the following: helping districts with their Principles of Effectiveness Plans (POE’s); preparing for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction's “Consolidated Program Review,” crisis management plans and the identification of potential other resources to increase services at the district level.

For further details on the Safe and Drug Free Schools program, please use the following website: www.ed.gov/offices/OESE/SDFS

Diane Shepherd
Prevention Services Director
dshepherd@esd123.org
509.544.5761