The state Education Department and the state Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services has issued updated joint guidance and resources for school districts to assist with addressing substance abuse.

The collaboration provides districts with information to assist students, teachers and parents looking for help and support related to substance use.

The updated guidance reflects changes to Education Law Section 3038 that require the superintendent of each school district, in consultation with the local Board of Cooperative Educational Services District Superintendent where applicable, to designate an employee of the school district or BOCES to provide individuals with information on how to find available substance use related services.

The guidance also provides information on the role of the designee, information for administrators and boards of education regarding substance use policies in schools, partnering with BOCES and community-based organizations, along with a wealth of reliable resources on substance use issues.

For more information, visit combataddiction.ny.gov/schools.