06/17/2023
Dear Gardner Middle School Families, In the past two days, three students from Gardner Middle School were taken to the hospital by ambulance after taking ma*****na in school—two from v**e pens, one from edible chocolates. We also know that students have abused prescription and over the counter medications over the years. Unfortunately, students can easily conceal these items: v**e pens and pills are tiny and easily concealed, and the edibles look like harmless chocolate candy. None of these students were caught in the act; it was only in cases when students demonstrated concerning behaviors that staff would be aware that there was any issue. This is alarming, and calls for a united front when talking with our children about the dangers of using illicit substances (e.g. ma*****na, ni****ne, prescription medications, and excessive amounts of over-the-counter medications). Recent research shows that adolescent va**ng is now reaching epidemic proportions throughout the country. Several of the students involved in these incidents have reported that they felt that “va**ng ma*****na is safe.” Respiratory researchers published findings showing that va**ng either ci******es or ma*****na is not safe. A further concern has been raised that our children are not purchasing these products through the legal and regulated industry directly, so they truly do not know the substances that might be added before illegal distribution. For example, the Gardner Police Department has seen a rise in ma*****na laced with Fentanyl in our community. (Fentanyl is a highly addictive opioid that is generally 100 times more potent than morphine.) In addition, common medicines found in households are also a concern. “On September 24, 2020 the FDA warned that taking higher than recommended doses of the common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicine diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl) can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or even death. We are aware of news reports of teenagers ending up in emergency rooms or dying after participating in the “Benadryl Challenge” encouraged in videos posted on the social media application TikTok. Adversely large doses of Benadryl can cause delirium, psychosis, seizures, coma, and even death.” (US Food and Drug Administration) It is important to talk with your child about substances, and keep talking. Be sure that you are including OTC medication when discussing the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and other substances. The Partnership to End Addiction on the Intentional Misuse of Over-the Counter Medication and The Center for Disease Control and Prevention have tips and resources to help families address this problem. Community ● Appreciation ● Responsibility ● Excellence Ultimately, it is important to keep a close eye on your children and any medications/substances including ni****ne gum, v**es, cannabis, alcohol, etc... that you have in your home. Also, monitor their use of social media including TikTok, where there have been “challenges” involving misuse of medications as well as other activities that are dangerous to participate in. For additional resources to support your child in their wellness journey, the district has recently contracted with Care Solace, a 24/7/365 resource available to GPS students and their families at no cost. Care Solace can help you find mental health and substance use treatment providers when needed, and can connect you with these providers through a confidential portal. As always, please reach out to us if you need any additional support or resources, or if you have a concern about any child attending Gardner Public Schools. Sincerely, Mark J. Pellegrino Superintendent Rebecca McCaffrey Director of Health and Safety Nicholas Maroni Deputy Chief of Police
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