Cocaine mentioned in math assignment left parents worried

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When talking about measures necessary for curbing the skyrocketing rate of drug addiction in the United States, one of the most effective solutions is integrating drug education in the school curriculum. In fact, many American states have even introduced the pilot curriculum to estimate and analyze the effectiveness of the measure.

Amidst the above debate, a shocking incidence was reported from a high school in Illinois, where a teacher had allegedly included equations about cocaine and getting high in a homework assignment. As per the reports, parents raised their concern over the issue after freshman students brought home the offensive math homework. Some of the questions mentioning cocaine were highlighted through a social media post. While one question read “You take 600 milligrams of cocaine, your body filters out 40 percent per hour, how high are you in three hours?,” another read “Unfortunately, you can’t pay your dealer and she sets up a payment, you owe her $1,000 and 25 percent daily, how much do you owe her one year later?”

The school and the faculty have apologized for the above incident by terming it as an example of poor judgment. They have also expressed their intent to avoid the repetition of such a regrettable measure. However, this has become a matter of concern for all parents. Since adolescence is the critical phase of life when the vulnerability to drugs is the maximum, parents suspect that the exposure to the names of addictive substances could become a source of encouragement for students to indulge in drug-seeking practices. Giving a quick overview, the school district said, it is investigating the matter and is in talks with the faculty member involved in the lapse in judgment.

Adolescence, drugs and education

One must understand that teenage is a complicated phase of life that inflicts various hormonal, physical and emotional changes. Such developments often become too overwhelming to control. Moreover, this is the stage when children start getting exposure to worldly things. They are not only inquisitive but also full of curiosity. While exploring and discovering new things, they run the risk of falling into malpractices, like drug abuse due to lack of awareness and knowledge. Additionally, the tenderness of this phase also makes them vulnerable to addiction and substance abuse. Therefore, parents and schools are often careful about what to say and teach the children.

According to several think tanks, since school is the place where a teen spends most of his or her time, it becomes an effective platform to spread knowledge and wisdom required to sustain and conquer the world. The schools can play a pivotal role in educating children about the hazards of drugs, such as reduction in executive and cognitive skills, death, personal and professional loss, etc. This can assist students in keeping substance abuse at bay. Hence, teachers and schools need to be conscious of the facts shared with students. Any misjudgment or wrong decision can have greater consequences, as discussed above.

Education is key to prevention

Addiction, especially opioid addiction, is one of the biggest health threats to the U.S. Sadly, the menace has not only affected adults but has also gripped teenagers. While incessant curiosity and desperation to explore even the forbidden path play a major role in increasing the rate of drug addiction among teenager, other practices like overprescription and the availability of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines at a cheaper price lure teenagers toward drug abuse. While schools should educate students about drugs and addiction, parents and others should also take necessary measures to avoid addiction and abuse.

If you or your loved one is suffering from drug addiction or experiencing the symptoms, it is recommended to immediately seek medical help. Get in touch with Rapid Detox Helpline to inquire about the best detox treatment suitable for you. Call at our 24/7 helpline number 866-403-5591 or chat online with our experts to know more about the rapid detoxification centers and detox treatment centers available near you.