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November 1, 2022
Dear Parents and Guardian(s),
Yesterday, a child experienced a health reaction due to the ingestion of edible ‘gummies’ that contain THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.
While the child is recovering and expected to be fine, all parents and guardians should pay close attention to this emerging challenge.
Our health care professionals at the middle school want parents and caregivers to know three important facts about these products– facts that should cause parents concern and prompt a conversation with their children.
- These products are illegal for possession or consumption by anyone under the age of 21. They are, as well, prohibited and a violation of our Code of Conduct.
- These products can vary significantly in their potency, which can result in very unexpected physical reactions. Students are not typically aware of this, and may, as a result, find themselves experiencing something that impacts their physical and emotional health and well-being. Specifically, ingesting high amounts of THC can lead to elevated heart rate levels that require immediate medical attention.
- These products carry known health risks, especially for adolescents. These include:
a) short-term memory loss
b) coordination issues
c) impaired cognitive functions
d) psychosis
e) increased risks of anxiety and depression
f) dependence/addiction
Below are photos of what these substances may look like and how they are marketed to resemble candies, USB's, lipsticks, asthma pumps, phone cases, etc.
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