An Alternative to Suspension for Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Use/Possession infractions is required by the Discipline Guide. Participation in an ATS program supports students’ academic progress by:
- default_titleReducing the number of days out of school for suspension
- default_titleOffering education about the risks and dangers of substance use
- default_titleTeaching life skills for making healthier decisions
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“Teen tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana users are at least twice as likely as nonusers to have poor grades and teen marijuana users are approximately twice as likely as nonusers to drop out of high school” (Adolescent Substance Use: America's #1 Public Health Problem, June 2011).
Choice to Change started on January 29, 2013. The new program was piloted as an Alternative to Suspension for Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs.
The parent(s)/caregiver(s) were required to attend with their child. Students who violated tobacco policy were required to attend three sessions (first offense); those who violated alcohol and other drug policies or committed a second tobacco offense were required to attend six sessions.
The program was conducted on Tuesdays at Santaluces Community High School, Wednesdays at Spanish River Community High School, and Thursdays at Palm Beach Gardens Community High School. New family orientation was held from 5:30-6:15 pm. The program operated from 6:30-8:00 pm.
When a student is suspended for an ATOD use/possession, one of the following forms must be utilized. The student must bring the ATS form that corresponds to the suspension to the program in order for Choice to Change to document attendance and completion. Choice to Change is now included as an option.
Choice to Change, Inc. has worked extensively with Youth Court and came highly recommended. Student Intervention Services is overseeing program implementation.