Parents. The Anti-Drug, a community based organization whose mission is to generate conversation and provide accurate information about alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Bannockburn, Deerfield, Highwood, Highland Park, and Riverwoods, recently received the Award of Recognition in the team category for the Illinois State Board of Education’s, Those Who Excel award program.
The Illinois State Board of Education sponsors the awards program annually to recognize people who have made outstanding contributions to public and nonpublic elementary and secondary education. A selection committee comprised of representatives of statewide organizations is convened and they score the nominations received.
Parents. The Anti-Drug, which began in April of 2009, is comprised of parents, local government and school officials, clergy and healthcare providers. Parents. The Anti-Drug believes that by taking time to talk (adult to adult, adult to teen, and teen to teen) about the risks and consequences of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, a more informed adult and teen citizenry is created, resulting in reduced consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs among teens in our communities.
Parents are the most powerful influence in a child’s life – greater than peers, popular music, television, celebrities, and the media! Research shows that kids who consistently learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are 50% less likely to use drugs and alcohol than those who do not; yet only 30% of teens report learning about the risks of using drugs and alcohol from their parents. More surprisingly, according to a recent study of District 113 students, parental disapproval is one of the most important deterrents to drug or alcohol use.
Sue Hebson, the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Communication for District 113, nominated Parents. The Anti-Drug for the award. She stated, “The passion that they have demonstrated for our youth has already made a significant difference. They are deserving of recognition and this acknowledgement will likely fuel more success. Developing partnerships, fostering communication, and ultimately, saving lives – that’s the work of Parents. The Anti-Drug.”
On Tuesday, October 12th, the Township High School District 113 Board of Education recognized Parents. The Anti-Drug for their achievement and the award was presented at the Those Who Excel banquet on Saturday, October 16th in Peoria, Illinois.
