The following message is from North Albany Middle School Principal Andrea Piper:

I am writing to let you know of a situation involving several students in our school community who reported exposure to, or ingestion of, suspected marijuana edibles Thursday. No students displayed symptoms while in our care, and all were assessed by our school nurse. For students involved, we are following our Student Code of Conduct in this matter.

We take this matter very seriously. Please know that the health and safety of all students at North Albany Middle School and throughout the City School District of Albany is a top priority.  Our school staff will be talking with our students about the significant health risks associated with underage substance usage. Our building Student Support Services Team also will be working with our teachers to hold additional conversations with our students as necessary. 

Please also talk with your children at home about the potentially dangerous consequences associated with using, possessing or distributing substances of any kind. Not only is this behavior a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, it can cause serious health issues.

Resources for parents and guardians

Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss their concerns about substance abuse with their children long before their children give them a reason to be concerned; this is preventive. Children should be well aware of how their parents or caregivers feel about drugs and alcohol, their expectations for healthy decisions and consequences for choosing to use substances.

• If you would like tips on how to speak to your children about substance abuse, the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse has a wealth of resources.
• “Prevention Works”
• “Children’s Mental Health Matters”

Additional local resources for substance abuse treatment

• Northern Rivers -- (518) 426-2600
• Hope House -- (518) 482-4673
• The Addictions Care Center -- (518) 465-5470
• St. Peter’s Addiction Recovery Center –   (518) 458-8888

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please call me at (518) 475-6800.