We, the undersigned, are opposed to the expansion of Delaware Valley School District\'s zero tolerance drug policy. We believe that the answer to the problems before us requires increased resources for prevention and treatment of substance abuse, not the continuation of an abusively punitive system as suggested - a system that lacks any evidence of effectiveness or deterrence value whatsoever. Students who pose no substantial threat or disruption to others should remain in school and remain engaged, not outcasted for significant or indefinite periods of time. This is especially true under the current situation when no alternative education programs are funded or available. While we recognize the seriousness of the use, possession, or distribution of drugs and alcohol, we are adamantly opposed to a disciplinary system that removes discretion from the school administration and places an undue burden on the school\'s Board of Directors as well as the students and their families. The most important lesson a student can be taught is that they must learn from their mistakes. This is how growing and improving works. When a student falls, they must be picked back up by their teachers and administrators, not expelled and forgotten about. We join with the American Bar Association, the American Civil Liberties Union, the American Psychological Association, and many other nationally renowned organizations and advocacy groups in our opposition to this policy which does not help, and perhaps even perpetuates, the problem of drug and alcohol use in our district.

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