There
was no change in the rate of alcohol use between 2006 and 2008 and the
number of local kids who drink alcohol remains below the state average.
Marijuana use increased, with 21 percent of kids saying they tried the
drug. However, the recent numbers are below the peak 2002 level of 28
percent and the state average.

More Somerville kids are
smoking marijuana than cigarettes, according to the study. Fifteen
percent of kids said they smoked cigarettes.

Somerville Cares
About Prevention worked in collaboration with the Health Department,
the School Department and the Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) to
develop the anonymous survey. The survey focused on issues such as
substance abuse, violence and safety, and physical and mental health.
The results showed substance abuse in Somerville below state averages.

"This
survey is an important tool for SCAP, the public schools, CHA and our
other community partners that allows us to evaluate our current
policies and to develop new ways of reaching Somerville youth," said
Acting SCAP Director Corey Mashburn. "While the results of this survey
are very important to our ongoing prevention and intervention efforts,
it is important to note that there are incredibly positive aspects to
adolescent life. Over the past several years we have seen a marked
increase in youth involvement in our city and I look forward to working
with the many youth organizations throughout the city in the coming
months and years."

The anonymous and confidential survey was administered in February of 2008 to all public school students in grades 9 to 12.