Calif. Research Group to Examine Narconon Program July 6, 2004
News Summary
The California Healthy Kids Resource Center has been appointed by California schools chief Jack O'Connell to examine the components of the Narconon anti-drug program, the San Francisco Chronicle reported July 2.The research group is known for its meticulous reviews of health curricula. O'Connell said researchers would spend three months evaluating the classroom instruction of Narconon.
"The review will be limited to looking at the curriculum and training materials for their accuracy, medical research, and authenticity," O'Connell said. "The resource center will do a very thorough evaluation from five qualified reviewers, including a physician, education professionals, and drug and alcohol prevention coordinators."
Narconon's one-hour presentations to schools have come under fire for incorporating language and concepts embraced by the Church of Scientology.
Although Narconon officials acknowledge that L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Church of Scientology, developed the curriculum, they insist that the program is nonsectarian.
"We welcome the opportunity to provide the California Department of Education with first-hand information about our drug-education program, its science-based curriculum, and our results over the last 30 years," said Clark Carr, Narconon's president. "With teen alcohol and drug use continuing at epidemic levels, giving the truth about drugs to our children is essential. It is both the California Department of Education's and Narconon's responsibility to ensure that youth learn enough to live drug-free lives."
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