Prescription drug abuse cited as a growing school problem

An education department surveyhas found that almost 10 per cent of students in high school in Newfoundland and Labradorhave abused prescription drugs.

The statistics come from the School Climate Survey, whichasked students about their schools and what they do while in school.

The survey, which was released last June, encompassed the 2012-2013 school year.

Students in Grades 2, 5, junior high and high school levels took part.

They were asked questionscategorized by school safety, expectations, bullying, drug and alcohol use as well as student satisfaction.

Although the department never issued a formal news release when the survey was released, it was posted on their website. Department officials have said they also provided the information to school boards.

Federation of School Councils concerned

Nathan Whalen, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils, worries that drug abuse in schools is a growing problem.

"Well, I'm definitely deeply concerned that students are trying more hardcore drugs like cocaine and ecstasy and they are trying them at younger ages and this survey is showing that," Whalen said.

Whalen said the research found students do not believe the educators are taking the problem seriously enough.

"By and large, students are not really satisfied with the amount or the quantity of anti-drug or anti-alcohol programs that are available in schools," he said.

Whalen said the report is a cry for help and he's calling on the education system to do more to address the problems it identifies.

The report highlights that in all grade levels, one in10 students feels unsafe at school.