Conn. Schools Start Early with Anti-Drug Training December 1, 2004
News Summary
The school system in Stamford, Conn., has revised its health curriculum to include alcohol and other drug education in kindergarten, the Stamford Advocate reported Nov. 29.The city is using a curriculum guide from Health Wave Inc., a Stamford company that provides lesson plans for kindergarten through 12th grade. For kindergartners, the curriculum focuses on the difference between harmful and helpful drugs. In first grade, students learn the dangers of tobacco use, while in second-grade, students practice resisting tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. The plan is designed to inform students about the harmful effects of alcohol, drugs and tobacco by fifth grade.
Sidney Abramowitz, department head for mathematics and science for the school system, said school officials expect to finalize a citywide health curriculum for middle and elementary schools by next year.
According to Abramowitz, parents have been calling for lessons on the dangers of drinking in the earlier grades following the July drunk-driving death of 19-year-old Stamford High School graduate Jason Lorenti.
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