Update: the Community Information Session dates have been announced.
Bellevue Students, Parents, Families, Community Members, and Staff:
With the tragic deaths of three students in our neighboring school districts of Issaquah and Seattle from the deadly opioid fentanyl, I send you this message to create more awareness about this deadly substance. The loss of life is always difficult, and the loss of young lives is heartbreaking. We share the pain with our partner learning communities, and we extend our support and sympathy.
Today, we as education leaders, cannot remain silent when ensuring the well-being and safety of our students. Many in our learning community may have questions about what actions can be taken to help prevent a future tragedy.
In direct response, the Bellevue School District (BSD) will be offering information sessions for students, families and the community in the very near future. Here are some details:
- We are partnering with the Bellevue Police Department and Youth Eastside Services.
- There will be two sessions.
- A separate communication has been sent out announcing these dates.
BSD has taken steps to protect and educate our students, and we will continue to do the following:
- Provide drug and alcohol counselors in all middle and high schools.
- Teach drug and alcohol use prevention units in middle and high school health classes.
- Train all counselors, nurses and principals to recognize signs of drug and alcohol abuse and how to help.
- Post the Fentanyl Warning Poster created by King County Department of Public Health in all high schools.
Parents and families in immediate crisis can do the following:
- Call Crisis Connections at 866-427-4747. This line is available 24-hours a day and provides helpful resources and support for people in need.
- Contact your student’s school nurse, counselor, or the school’s drug and alcohol counseling specialist if you have further questions.
In partnership,
Ivan Duran
Superintendent
Bellevue School District