Feb 23, 2007 5:02 pm US/Central
DISD Taking Steps To Combat 'Cheese' Drug
DALLAS (CBS 11 News) ―
The Dallas Independent School District says that it is taking steps to combat the dangerous and sometimes deadly drug known as 'cheese.'
The drug is filtering into the hallways of some schools, especially those highly populated with Hispanic students.
A Dallas eighth-grader died Sunday. Although toxicology reports are incomplete, the family suspects that a 'cheese' overdose could be to blame.
"It came very fast, and it is very dangerous and highly addictive," said DISD Associate Superintendent Rosemarie Allen. "We're seeing girls as young as 12 to 15 years old becoming highly addicted."
Parents and school administrators are now wondering how to fight a problem that is seemingly spiraling out of control.
The district says that they are now stepping up enforcement on campuses. According to the district, 90 drug-related arrests were made during the 2005/2006 school year. They say that 86 drug-related arrests have been made so far this school year.
In addition to stepping up enforcement, the DISD says that it is spreading awareness, making sure that every parent, teacher and child is aware of the dangers surrounding the cheap powdery mix of Tylenol PM and heroin.
On Wednesday, concerned parents met with police to discuss the problem and propose solutions. Parents want more drug-sniffing dogs on campus, a monitor program and safe free zones enforced.
The district says that they already have some programs in place. A drug tip line is available at 214-932-5695, there will be more police and K-9 presence and information is being sent to parents, students and teachers.
Officials say that they cannot fight the problem alone. "It is very difficult to keep drugs out of our schools if the proliferation in our community is abundant," said Allen. "It takes multiple fronts to make sure the drugs don't enter our schools."
The DISD is not the only district facing this 'cheese' problem. Several other schools in the area have had similar reports.
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