Concord, MDUSD officials offer updates on drugs, bullying in schools
CONCORD, CA (Sept. 20, 2023) — Narcan in schools, anti-bullying initiatives and city development projects were among the topics discussed at a joint meeting of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) and the Concord City Council on Aug. 29.
Narcan (Naloxone), a drug that can reverse a fentanyl or opioid overdose, is currently available in high schools and middle schools throughout the district. At the meeting, it was revealed that the drug will be rolling out to elementary schools soon.
Superintendent Adam Clark says that stocking Narcan is more preemptive and cautious than it is a solution to a large problem. “This is a preventative measure, not a reaction to any specific trend within MDUSD,” Clark said.
However, he noted that the district has seen deaths that could have been prevented.
“Unfortunately, there have been local student and alumni deaths that could have been avoided if Naloxone were used.”
‘Positive’ steps against bullying
The district’s unique approach to fighting bullying also was on full display, with talk of Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS), other approaches and a “positive school climate.”
A major tenet of PBIS is decreasing the level of punitive responses like expulsion and suspension and creating a positive environment for everyone where the expectations for behavior are clear. The policies allow school officials to “maximize our resources through data-based decisions and research-based practices.”
“Students are encouraged to notify school staff when they are being bullied or suspect that another student is being victimized,” Clark added.
From there, the district takes “supportive measures” and “treats the situation as an opportunity for education” instead of focusing on punishment. The district also offers counselor support and wellness centers at its schools.
During MDUSD’s portion of the meeting, other topics included transportation and tobacco use prevention.
Vince Martellacci
Vince Martellacci is a somewhat new resident of Clayton who loves to spend time in the town center and in Concord. He represents musicians across the Bay Area in the media when he’s not writing. Contact him at vince@4amindiepublicity.com.