This is the first in a series of three letters to all Burlington Township Community Members about keeping our children safe, the effects of vaping, and how to take control of an emerging crisis that is growing in popularity. Although this letter series is focused on vaping, the program will cover all aspects of drug use and abuse which we see in our community.
This is a special invitation to all parents and concerned community members in Burlington Township. We are hosting a program in our Falcon Parent and Community University series that is back by popular demand. This program is not popular because it was fun or easy, it was popular because it was eye-opening and realistic. The program last year gave parents the information they needed to be prepared to go home and approach scary topics. If you don't make any other programs this year, join us for this event. Parents are the frontline in protecting children!
Our concern for our students' safety is not limited to their physical well being or the security protocols we have embraced in Burlington Township. As a school district, we have worked diligently on behalf of your children, our students, to gain a deeper understanding of how to help our families and our community join us in caring for all aspects of our students.
Today's world of drug use, alcohol abuse, and other addictive behaviors is not easy to talk about. It is even harder to grasp in some cases. Gone are the days when drug use was evidenced by a smell, a needle, or a pill bottle thanks to electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 out of every 4 middle and high school students has used an electronic vaping device. These devices are deceivingly small and common looking, often resembling a pen or USB drive. The liquid solutions that are used in these devices may contain nicotine, marijuana, and other harmful chemicals. Some will try to convince parents that these are harmless and safe. This is simply not true. These delivery systems allow for drugs to be more concentrated and potent than in generations past.
There are so many threats to our children. This threat is preventable only if parents and community members take control by learning all they can about the latest trends in drug use. Please join us Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 6:30 P. M. in the Burlington Township Performing Arts Center. Our Student Assistant Coordinators will be available that evening. You may leave a bit shaken, but you will leave more informed!
Mary Ann Bell
