Substance Use Prevention

Clarenceville School District is committed to the health and safety of every student. Research consistently shows that early, open conversations between parents and children about the risks of substance use are one of the most effective prevention tools available. This page provides information and resources to help families talk with their children about tobacco, vaping, marijuana, alcohol, and other substances.

What Students Learn at School

Clarenceville students receive substance use prevention education as part of the Michigan Model for Health™ curriculum, a nationally recognized, evidence-based health education program used in most Michigan schools. The curriculum has been updated to address:

  • Tobacco, with an expanded focus on vaping and e-cigarettes
  • Marijuana, including vaping marijuana
  • Secondhand and thirdhand smoke and e-cigarette aerosol
  • Alcohol and other substances at appropriate grade levels

Parents are encouraged to reinforce these lessons at home by starting conversations early and often.

Why This Matters: Key Facts for Parents

Vaping:

  • One in three Michigan high schoolers has tried vaping
  • 55% of Michigan youth who vape report they started at age 13 or younger
  • E-cigarettes — whether containing nicotine, THC, or flavoring — produce dangerous chemicals that can cause lung and cardiovascular disease
  • THC concentrations in vapes can be as high as 95%, compared to about 4% in the 1990s — vaping THC doubles the risk of addiction

Marijuana:

  • Adult recreational marijuana is legal in Michigan, but it is illegal for anyone under 21
  • The adolescent brain continues developing until age 25 — substance use during this period can have lasting effects on memory, learning, and mental health
  • Marijuana products can be laced with dangerous substances including fentanyl without the user's knowledge

Alcohol:

  • Underage drinking remains illegal in Michigan regardless of parental permission
  • Early alcohol use significantly increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorder later in life

Talking With Your Child

Starting conversations doesn't have to be difficult. A few tips:

  • Be direct and factual — kids respond better to honest information than to scare tactics
  • Use natural moments — a news story, a TV show, or a passing comment can open the door
  • Ask questions — "What do you know about vaping?" opens more dialogue than a lecture
  • Make your expectations clear — kids who know their parents' expectations are less likely to use substances
  • Keep talking — one conversation isn't enough; make it an ongoing dialogue as they grow

Free Quit Resources for Youth

My Life, My Quit — Free, confidential quit support for Michigan youth and young adults who want to stop vaping or using tobacco.

Treatment & Service Locators

MiSUD Service Locator — Michigan's interactive map for finding substance use disorder services and licensed treatment programs near you.

SAMHSA: Find a Treatment Facility — National search tool with filters to locate substance use treatment services. Call ahead to confirm current services and insurance coverage.

Oakland County Resources

Oakland County Health Division — Substance Use Prevention Programs
Free, evidence-based programs for schools and families, including vaping prevention presentations for parents and guardians.

Oakland County Youth Assistance
Voluntary, community-based support for youth and families, including substance use assessment and referrals. Any youth up to age 18 who attends school in Oakland County is eligible.

Wayne County Resources

Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN)
Substance use treatment programs, peer recovery support, and medication-assisted therapy for Wayne County residents.

  • Crisis/Access Line: (800) 241-4949 — available 24/7
  • Website: dwihn.org

Wayne County Crisis Intervention Services
Free, confidential crisis support available 24/7 for mental health and substance use emergencies — by phone or in person.

State & National Resources

If Your Child Needs Help

If you are concerned that your child may be struggling with substance use, please reach out. Substance use is a health issue, and support is available.

  • Contact your building's main officeto connect with your building's social worker:
    • Botsford Elementary: 248-919-0402
    • Grandview Elementary: 248-919-0404
    • Clarenceville Middle School: 248-919-0406
    • Clarenceville High School: 248-919-0408
  • SAMHSA National Helpline — Free, confidential treatment referral and information: (800) 662-4357, available 24/7
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 if your child is in crisis

This page is reviewed and updated annually. For questions, contact the District Office at 248-919-0400.

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