Earlier this year, the State of Missouri provided school districts the opportunity to participate in a no-cost grant program designed to monitor community health trends through wastewater testing (sewage). Our district chose to participate in this program, which conducts weekly testing of wastewater from our high school facilities for the presence of certain substances.
We are proud to take part in this program as we will be able to gather valuable insight into trends within our community and take action.
At this time, the substances included in testing are: Fentanyl, Xylazine, Nitazenes, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Hydrocodone, Nicotine, Methadone, and Naloxone. Since our testing has begun, we have tested positive at least once in all of those categories except Xylazine and Naloxone.
Over spring break, several area news outlets reported that among the approximately 37 participating schools across the state, some tested positive for the presence of dangerous opioids. While this information may be concerning, we want to be clear about our purpose and approach. As a district, we believe it is important to confront potential challenges directly rather than avoid difficult information. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community.
It is important to understand the limitations of this testing. Currently, only 37 out of approximately 1,000 high schools in Missouri are participating, and the testing platform itself is still new and evolving. The results cannot identify individuals, nor do they indicate how many people may have contributed to the findings. Additionally, results cannot determine whether substances originated from students, staff, or community members. However, the data does indicate that certain substances are present within the broader community.
In response, our district is committed to taking proactive and responsible steps. We currently:
Participate in D.A.R.E. programs
Partner with Prevention Consultants to provide evidence-based drug prevention education
10-session lessons on “Too Good for Drugs” at all three buildings
“Teens Teach Prevention”
Student mentoring programs
Are actively collaborating with the St. James Police Department and other community resources to strengthen our approach to student education and awareness
We believe that education and awareness are key components in prevention. Schools play an important role, but they cannot do this work alone. We strongly encourage families to engage in open and ongoing conversations with their children about the dangers of drug use. Research shows that consistent messaging from both school and home significantly increases the likelihood that students will make safe and informed choices.
This is a shared responsibility, and together, we can make a meaningful impact. By working in partnership, we can continue to support the health, safety, and success of all students in our district.
If you have any questions or would like additional resources to support conversations at home, please do not hesitate to contact the district office at 573-265-2300.