Substance misuse is a pressing public health concern that has a significant impact on students, families, and communities. Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) implements a whole-child approach to addressing substance misuse through policies and programs that holistically attend to the physical, social, and emotional health and well-being of every student. Education and prevention activities are a critical part of this approach, as they work to prevent the use and misuse of drugs by increasing awareness of substances, discussing healthy behavioral alternatives, and providing information on how to access supportive resources and services. 

All FCPS schools will provide two substance abuse prevention lessons to all students in grades 11 and 12 during the 2024-2025 academic year. The first lesson will be provided at James Madison High School on November 21st, 2024 during Advisory, and the second lesson will be provided on February 27th, 2025 during Advisory. Lessons will cover the following topics:

• Most Commonly Used Substances
• In-depth Opioid Information
• Negative Impact of Substances
• Reasons Why Youth Use Substances
• Healthy Alternatives to Substances
• Available FCPS and Fairfax County Resources

For additional information related to FCPS’ approach to addressing youth substance use, please see the FCPS Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Programs page.

If you have questions about the lessons, please contact Stefan Mascoll, Senior Manager II of Student Safety and Wellness, at 571-423-4270 or @email. 

Opt-Out Process

If you do not wish for your child to take part in these lessons, please complete the 2024-2025 Substance Use Prevention Lesson Opt-Out Form and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 13, 2024. Your child will be assigned an alternate activity in a separate supervised location during the time the lessons are taking place.