May 14, 2009

We can work together to stop underage drinking during prom and graduation festivities
. . .
Dear High School Parents and Guardians:

Beginning with the Barrington High School prom this Saturday, followed by graduation in two weeks, this is a time of celebration for many students and their families. Unfortunately, these happy occasions sometimes involve underage drinking, which often results in tragedy. It is critical that parents keep the lines of communication open when speaking with their children about the dangers of underage drinking and drunk driving.

Each year, more than one-third of youth under the age of 21 killed in alcohol-related fatalities die during prom and graduation season (April, May and June) according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Last year in the U.S., nearly 400 youths under age 21 lost their lives in alcohol-impaired traffic fatalities following prom or graduation.

Accidents related to underage drinking are preventable. Teens must learn the importance of making the right choice about alcohol. Because high school students are younger than 21, the only responsible option is for them not to drink.

As a former principal, I understand teens want to celebrate outside of school-sponsored events after prom or graduation and may feel coerced to drink. However, the Illinois Youth Survey, which Barrington High School students completed last year, indicates alcohol consumption is not the norm. In fact, 60 percent of Barrington High School students said they had not consumed alcohol in the previous 30 days. While this figure is much lower than desired, we should feel some relief a majority of our youth are mature enough to avoid alcohol. Still, we want all teens to make smart decisions when pressured or tempted.

Parents, you can also make wise choices to curb underage drinking. Reduce the access of alcohol to youth in your home, set clear boundaries about what the rules are to keep children safe during prom and graduation season, and make sure any parties your child attends in your home or elsewhere are alcohol and drug free. According to the Barrington Community Drug Prevention Coalition, parental disapproval of underage drinking is a key reason why adolescents refrain from alcohol. More important, furnishing alcohol to minors in your home can be a felony offense punishable by strict fines and imprisonment.

A special insert in both English and Spanish (follow either link) is appearing in area newspapers on the dangers of underage drinking, which hopefully prompts community and family discussions about the risks of alcohol consumption during prom or graduation season and at any other time of year. Please join Barrington 220 in doing everything possible to promote safe, healthy behaviors and responsible decisions among teens in our community.

Sincerely, Tom Leonard
tleonard@cusd220.org