Schools

Rocky Point Parents Required to Watch New Substance Abuse PSA

Parents must now watch a five-minute PSA before gaining access to their child's report card.

Before parents of students in the Rocky Point School District can access their child’s final report card, they are now required to watch a five-minute public service announcement about the dangers of substance abuse.

“Not My Child: Suffolk’s Drug Epidemic,” came about as a result of the rising rates of substance-related deaths on the island. In Suffolk County alone, there were approximately 82 documented heroin overdose deaths last year, compared to 38 in 2010.

“The launch of this groundbreaking campaign to raise awareness is a critical step toward reducing the alarming rates of prescription drug and opiate abuse we have experienced in Suffolk County and across our nation,” said County Executive Steve Bellone.

Find out what's happening in Miller Place-Rocky Pointwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The PSA has received thousands of unique views since it was first made public. Featured in the video are Suffolk County residents Tracey Budd and Brian Phillips who both lost children to substance abuse.

“My hope is for parents to be aware, to not turn a blind eye,” said Budd. “Don’t be afraid to do your job as a parent – it may save their life.”

Find out what's happening in Miller Place-Rocky Pointwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“As a community, we must work together to fight the growing drug epidemic,” said Legislator Sarah Anker. “Through the County’s partnership with the Rocky Point School District, this public service announcement can alert parents of the warning signs of drug use and also offer them support and direction.

“I applaud the brave parents for sharing their stories in the video, in the hope that they will save another child’s life.”

What do you think of the new campaign to fight substance abuse? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. 


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