Important Update about Drug Use Prevention
Dear FCPS Families and Staff,
I am writing to you today with important information that we hope will encourage all families to have critical conversations at home this weekend. In the past 24 hours, we have experienced two non-fatal overdoses at two different schools, Oakton High School and Key Middle School. In both instances, the students required urgent medical care and later admitted to using marijuana beforehand. In at least one instance, it appears the student used synthetic marijuana. These incidents do not appear to be connected, but they are still very concerning.
Fortunately, both students are recovering and receiving appropriate support. While we have already shared notifications with both of the impacted school communities, as required by Virginia Code , these particular incidents are very serious, which is why we are also sending a divisionwide message.
According to the National Institute for Drug Abuse (NIDA), synthetic cannabinoids are chemically similar to cannabis (marijuana) but are made in a lab and can have unpredictable and severe effects on the body. These substances are also more likely to be made illegally. They may be referred to as “K2” or “spice” and are commonly produced as a vape cartridge.
One of the most powerful steps you can take to help your child make responsible decisions is to have open, ongoing conversations about drugs and health. I encourage you to visit NIDA’s website for helpful advice on how to talk with your child in ways that will strengthen their ability to make healthy decisions now and in the future.
FCPS remains firmly committed to prevention and proactive education. Through our health curriculum, students learn how substance use impacts their health, academic achievement, and relationships. If you have concerns about your child or need assistance accessing support services, please reach out to your school. Additional resources can be found on our website .
As always, if you have any information about safety concerns at your child’s school, the FCPS Office of Safety and Security maintains an anonymous safety tip line available online, by text, or by phone.
We will continue to share important information with families about substance use prevention strategies to help keep our community safe. It is important that we treat substance use disorders and overdoses with compassion, grace, and understanding. We all play a vital role in reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorders while working collectively toward prevention. Together, all things are possible.
Take good care,
Dr. Michelle C. Reid
Superintendent
Fairfax County Public Schools
