In the last few weeks, the Temecula Unified School District has experienced an increase in student contact with edibles, specifically brownies, containing marijuana.
Edible consumables can be extremely potent and can cause serious adverse reactions, especially when ingested by younger individuals. In addition to brownies, there is now an array of edible products, such as lozenges, candy, gummy bears and sweets.
Officials from the TVUSD wrote in an email to parents, "While our primary goal in communicating with you is to inform you of health and safety concerns, students can also face disciplinary consequences. A student may be subject to the following actions (suspension, expulsion,arrest) when it is determined that he/she unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or was under the influence of, any controlled substance as defined in Health and Safety Code 11053-11058, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind. (Education Code 48900(c)."
Parents are being encourage to have a conversation with their child(ren) to discuss this issue.
"They should always exercise caution when sharing food or beverages with friends and never accept anything from a stranger," wrote TVUSD Public Information Officer, Laura Boss.
The Temecula Police Department is working with the district to assist with identifying trends and sharing of resources and information.
"Open lines of communication with your child(ren) will help to facilitate good decision making skills. If a student experiences an issue or concern, please encourage them to immediately contact a teacher or administrator for assistance," wrote Boss.
While the district doesn’t typically endorse a particular website for information, they are recommending www.commonsensemedia.org as a resource to find practical and useful tips on how to talk to your child(ren) about many of the issues facing them today.
The TVUSD is preparing an evening presentation for parents in April by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to share information about drug trends, identification, and other helpful resources. Parents will be notified as soon as the date and time are established.