Opioid education should be thoroughly addressed at Park

The opioid crisis, which President Trump officially named a public health emergency Oct. 26, according to the New York Times, needs to be talked about and students must have the opportunity to learn about these drugs.

According to the FDA, opioids are strong painkillers that when prescribed and used correctly control pain, but when misused can become highly addictive.

Schools should design a curriculum that will educate students about these highly addictive drugs and the risks of using unprescribed opioids. Schools should mimic their education programs off of the pilot program Minnetonka Public Schools recently introduced.

According to KTSP, the Minnetonka Public School district was the first district in the state of Minnesota to announce a pilot program to address the opioid epidemic. The program’s goal was to educate students about opioid use and the dangers that follow when abused.

During the month of November, eighth and tenth grade students at Minnetonka watched a documentary about opioid addiction followed by a discussion. The discussion was lead by law enforcement officers and people recovering for opioid addictions.

Park should implement a program similar to the one in place at the Minnetonka Public Schools. Although exposure to opioids can happen at anytime throughout a person’s life, it is important for a program like this to educate students relatively early in their childhood, but also at a point in time when they are mature enough to understand the content.

A program that encourages an open discussion and allows students to hear from people who have recovered from an opioid addiction would be beneficial and have a lasting impact on students. This curriculum would encourage students to ask questions and also outline ways for students to get help if they are or know someone struggling with an addiction. It is vital for students to be educated about available resources in their community.