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Substance Abuse Prevention & Educational Intervention

ACPS Substance Abuse (SA) Prevention and Intervention Services

The primary responsibility for helping students who are involved with substance abuse lies with students and their parents. Nevertheless, the Department of Student Services & Equity (DSSE) strives to implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) approach to providing a supportive school environment for students involved with substance use or abuse. As such, DSSE supports substance abuse prevention and early intervention programs that vary according to individual needs. Included among these are programs to educate students about the harmful effects of illegal drugs and alcohol; the misuse of drugs and other legal substances; programs for staff in the identification of substance abuse; and activities and programs for those who need help with intervention activities and programs. The department's substance abuse prevention and early intervention program may provide group experiences, individual counseling, and other programs. Additionally, referral of students and parents to community agencies for assistance, at the parent's expense, may also occur.

Information = Prevention! ACPS Spring 2023 Workshops on Substance Abuse Prevention

Do you know how to recognize if your child is using drugs or alcohol? Do you know where to look? Do you know what to look for? ACPS invites parents, guardians and caregivers to join the Department of Student Services & Equity and ACPSFamily and Community Engagement Center this spring to learn about:

  • current drug trends
  • the signs & symptoms of substance abuse 
  • available resources 

This workshop is geared toward families of sixth-twelfth grade students. Below is a recording of the April 19, 2023 session.

Guiding Principles

The guiding practice principles of the substance abuse services at ACPS are:

ACPS provides Substance Abuse (SA) prevention and intervention services for grades K-12. This service is offered by the Department of Student Services & Equity using a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) approach, and Positive Behavioral Interventions (PBIS) to deliver services to students involved with substance use or abuse-related problems. Services include:

Alcohol and illegal drug use and abuse are prohibited by the ACPS Student Code of Conduct in compliance with all applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

  • Privacy
  • Safety
  • Confidentiality
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Screenings
  • Assessments
  • Early Intervention
  • Targeted Case Management
  • Prevention Campaigns

Substance Abuse Counselors

Fredy L. Martinez, MS.Ed. CSAC
K-12 Substance Abuse Prevention & Intervention Services Coordinator
703-619-8278 x1237
fredy.martinez@acps.k12.va.us

Ruthy Mercado, LCSW, MAC, CSAC
K-12 Substance Abuse Prevention & Intervention Services
703-619-8495 x2912
ruthy.mercado@acps.k12.va.us