Alcohol, Drug & Tobacco Policy

Alcohol & Drug Policy

Richland School District policies clearly state that it is unlawful for students or staff members to possess or use alcohol or illegal drugs on school premises or at any school activity.

Students
The Richland School Board recognizes that use/abuse of these substances is a societal problem and may represent an impairment to the normal development, well-being and academic performance of students. The Board is committed to the development of programs which emphasize prevention, intervention, aftercare support and corrective actions. The goal of intervention programs is to eliminate the use/abuse of harmful substances by students.
 

Although a helping hand relationship is emphasized, appropriate disciplinary action is taken when laws or school regulations are violated. If school authorities find a student in possession of addictive substances at school, the substances will be confiscated and turned over to law enforcement officials for investigation and disposal. The following disciplinary action can be taken by a school administrator regardless of law enforcement action—short-term suspension, long-term suspension, expulsion.

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use/Abuse (Policy 3418)

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use/Abuse (Procedure 3418)

Employees
The Board declares that the following behaviors by staff will not be tolerated:
1. Reporting to work under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
2. Using, possessing, transmitting alcohol, illegal substances in any amount or manner on district property.
3. Using District property or the staff member’s position to make or traffic in alcohol or illegal substances.
4. Using, possessing or transmitting alcohol, illegal substances in a manner which is detrimental to the interest of the district.
 

Staff members who violate any aspect of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, which may include immediate discharge. Other actions, such as notification of law enforcement agencies and/or adverse action against contract status, may be taken by the district in regard to a staff member’s violation of this policy.

Drug-Free Workplace (Policy 5258)

Tobacco Free Schools

All students, school employees and citizens are prohibited from using tobacco products of any kind while on district property. In addition, by state law, it is illegal for anyone 21 years old and under to possess or use tobacco in Washington State.

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use/Abuse (Policy 3418)

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use/Abuse (Procedure 3418)