By Aaron Smith

Shortly before the Winter Break, two Somerville High School students were transported to the hospital, displaying signs of disorientation and fatigue. School officials determined that the students had consumed baked goods that contained marijuana.

The parents of the students affected were notified immediately and were invited to meet with school administrators. A Somerville High School student was identified as the provider of the baked goods, and disciplinary action has been taken.

Somerville High School was quick to act, immediately implementing a plan to educate both students and parents on the dangers and consequences of marijuana consumption or distribution on school grounds.

The Somerville Public Schools continue to enforce a zero tolerance policy with regards to drug use. Along with the “Somerville Cares About Prevention” program and the Somerville Health and Human Services Department, Somerville Public Schools have hosted in-school and after-school education sessions in preparation for the legalization of marijuana in Massachusetts.

Over the course of the past week, public schools in Somerville have hosted a series of assemblies for students. These assemblies covered the description of the new statute on marijuana law, the Somerville Public Schools discipline policy, and substance abuse prevention and education. The presenters included Chief Fallon of the SPD, SHS Headmaster John Oteri, and Director of the Office of Prevention Cory Mashburn.

Additionally, SHS hosted a parent/guardian informational meeting, How You Can Support Your Child within the New Marijuana Law. This took place Wednesday, January 25 at the Somerville High Library and was open to the public.

The Somerville Public Schools continue to actively educate students on the dangers and consequences of marijuana consumption and distribution.