Orange High School launches substance use prevention and intervention program for students

The Board of Education meeting held on April 7, 2025, in North Carolina focused on critical issues affecting students, particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system and substance use. The meeting began with a discussion led by a speaker who emphasized the need for teacher support to help vulnerable youth. The speaker highlighted alarming statistics regarding Orange County students involved in the juvenile justice system, noting that 8% have inadequate supervision, 10% have initiated substance use, and 22% are failing most of their classes. The speaker urged for earlier interventions at the school level to support students' mental health and academic success.

Following this, Carrie Hamble addressed the board, echoing the need for ongoing attention to children with disabilities. She made several requests, including the recording and timely posting of finance and capital meeting materials, and more detailed financial records to enhance transparency and accountability. Hamble expressed concern over the significant amount of unused capital funds and called for improved public access to meeting materials.

Melanie Lasky, a parent and certified alcohol and drug counselor, spoke about a new substance use intervention program at Orange High School. She advocated for district-wide implementation of similar programs, citing their success in other areas. Lasky emphasized the importance of addressing substance use and mental health issues to prevent academic loss among students.

Lastly, Vidya Kasturi, a senior at Orange High School, shared her experiences as a lead intern in a substance use prevention initiative. She reported a lack of support felt by students struggling with substance use disorders and highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment for students to seek help. Kasturi noted the success of the newly established treatment and intervention program, which has seen a significant increase in student referrals for support.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued investment in programs that support students' mental health and academic success, underscoring the board's commitment to addressing these pressing issues. The discussions reflected a collective concern for the well-being of students and the need for effective interventions to foster a supportive educational environment.