Guest Column: $2.26 Million in Drug Use Prevention Grants is Another Step in the Right Direction

COLUMBUS - For over a decade now, Ohio has been in search of a solution to the deadly drug use that has run rampant since the early 2000s. While offices across state government have implemented different solutions, the Ohio Attorney General’s Office is taking a proactive approach in regard to Ohio’s young students. The office recently announced $2.66 million in grant funding for local law enforcement agencies to provide drug use prevention programming to schools during the 2022-23 academic year. 

I applaud the Attorney General’s prioritization of this program. Annually, the DUP Grant Programs pays up to 50% of salaries for DARE-certified officers and school resource officers who provide in-class instruction and direct counseling. 

These officers have a variety of curricula at their disposal to best educate Ohio’s children on the dangers of drug use. “Botvin Life Skills,” “DARE Keeping it Real,” “I’m Special,” “Reach Out Now” are just a few of the options to choose from. Such a variety is an important tool that allows these educators to tailor the curriculum to individual areas of Ohio. 

In addition to a wide-range of curricula, the grant money can also be used to pay for one-on-one counseling time and school- sponsored events.

While there are immediate needs calling for attention on this issue, I would encourage all of Ohio schools to capitalize on this opportunity to play a proactive role in seeing the state to the other side of this battle. 

The application period is open until May 3. To complete an application, visit https://www.jlweb.co/prod1/portal/portal.jsp?c=8347151&p=8372590&g=8372592. 

In everything I do, whether it is in Columbus or back in my home district of Stark County, I will continue to make your priorities my priorities. With that goal in mind, I welcome your feedback and opinions at any time. Please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (614) 752-2438, emailing Rep48@OhioHouse.gov, or by writing me at 77 South High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.