Drug, Alcohol & Tobacco Education

Fentanyl is a growing threat to the health and safety of our youth.  This man-made, Schedule II narcotic has reached a growing number of communities of all sizes across Texas. The last two years, teen overdose deaths related to Fentanyl have tripled according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Over half of all overdose deaths are related to Fentanyl use. Death from Fentanyl overdose happens when the respiratory system slows, or not enough oxygen gets to the brain.

Fentanyl is a manufactured opiate drug that is generally used in the medical field to treat severe pain. It is often used in emergency situations and given by paramedics and in emergency rooms. Sadly, an underground market has developed for this drug, and it is often marketed to youth.

Fentanyl can come in many forms and even the smallest amount can be lethal. It is often mixed with other drugs such as cocaine and heroin. Prescription medications can also be laced with it. There have been some cases where the Fentanyl pills were made to look like candy. Oftentimes, the teen has no idea that what they are taking has Fentanyl in it.

Fentanyl - The Invisible Killer
Fentanyl Fact Sheet
Fentanyl Awareness

Emoji Drug Code

This reference guide is intended to give parents, caregivers, and educators a better understanding of how emojis are being used to communicate about illegal drugs. Fake prescription pills, often laced with deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine, are often sold on social media and e-commerce platforms – making them available to anyone with a smartphone.

Talking to Your Teen

• Talk about the dangers that your teen may face at parties and social events. Let them know that they can talk to you about things that are concerning them.
• Monitor their social media and app usage. This is a common way that teens get access to this drug.
• Encourage your teen to get involved with extra-curricular activities, church, service projects, community, and school organizations. Keeping your teen involved can help battle loneliness, isolation, and hopelessness.
• Know how to access the district’s anonymous reporting tool. It can be found on the district’s website. Report any suspicion that Fentanyl use may be occurring in the schools or that someone may be abusing it. Encourage your child to do the same. You could save a life.
• Monitor your child’s behavior. Has their behavior changed lately? Do they have a new set of “friends”? Are they keeping to themselves more often than usual?
• Seek help if your child is facing a mental health challenge or if you suspect they are using any substance.
• Become educated about this deadly drug.  

Together, we can help our youth make better choices to avoid this dangerous drug and to keep it out of our schools and communities. 

Know The Risks

Brain Development & Marijuana

Talking With Your Teen About Marijuana
 

The Texas State Legislature passed HB 114, which now requires school districts to order a mandatory placement in the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) for any student who: 
 

• Possesses, uses, sells, gives, or delivers to another person an e-cigarette (vape). 
• Possesses, uses, or is under the influence of, or sells, gives, or delivers to another person marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 
   

A mandatory DAEP placement has a significant impact on a student’s school year. Students in DAEP are prohibited from participating in or attending extracurricular activities, athletics, fine arts, or any other events taking place on campus during that time.  

Please speak with your child about the profound affect having vapes or marijuana will have on their school lives.

THC Oil in Texas - The Legalities 

The Texas State Legislature passed HB 114, which now requires school districts to order a mandatory placement in the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) for any student who: 
 

• Possesses, uses, sells, gives, or delivers to another person an e-cigarette (vape). 
• Possesses, uses, or is under the influence of, or sells, gives, or delivers to another person marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 
   

A mandatory DAEP placement has a significant impact on a student’s school year. Students in DAEP are prohibited from participating in or attending extracurricular activities, athletics, fine arts, or any other events taking place on campus during that time.  

Please speak with your child about the profound affect having vapes or marijuana will have on their school lives.  

Vape Detectors Installed at Brewer High & Brewer Middle
As an additional safety measure, WSISD installed vape detectors in the restrooms at Brewer Middle School and Brewer High School. The sensors detect both vapes and sounds and notify the campus administration and safety team so they can investigate.  Cameras located in the hallways are also utilized to enforce WSISD’s no vaping policy on school grounds.  

Vaping: Know the Truth

What is Vaping/Juuling? 

Quick Vaping Facts

Know the Risks

Signs Your Teen is Vaping

Talking With Your Teen About Vaping