Hood River County School District values student well-being at the heart of its work. We are writing to share concerns about fentanyl and opioid drugs, which are harming people in our community. We hope this information will help protect students. This message contains valuable information, including guidance on responding to an overdose and resource links.

Teen drug use has been decreasing over time. However, data shows that there has been an increase in overdoses, mainly due to illicit fentanyl in the drug market (NIDA, 2023). It is crucial to educate students and young people about substance use risks, including the potential of fentanyl in illicit pills and other substances. It is also essential to raise awareness about opioid antagonists (such as naloxone).

What is an opioid? Opioids come from the opium poppy plant and include drugs like morphine, oxycodone, Dilaudid, heroin, and fentanyl. They attach to receptors to block pain and increase pleasure. Overdose is a common risk associated with opioids and can be intentional or accidental. Fentanyl is a powerful opioid: a dose as small as a few grains of sand can make a person stop breathing within minutes. 

Why do people use opioids? Opioids may be prescribed as pain medicine. Some young people try drugs because they are curious. Some people use drugs to avoid feeling difficult emotions. Opioids are addictive.

What is an opioid antagonist? Opioid antagonists are medications (naloxone is the most commonly known opioid antagonist) that can be delivered by a nasal spray or injection to quickly restore normal breathing for a person whose breathing has slowed down or stopped because of an overdose of fentanyl, prescription opioids, or heroin. Naloxone onset occurs within 2-3 minutes and lasts 30-90 minutes. Sometimes, a second dose of naloxone is necessary if symptoms of overdose return. Naloxone may be administered in emergency overdose situations and is safe for the person receiving the medication. 

What can you do? Please talk about the dangers of fentanyl and the availability of opioid agonists with your students and others you care about.  Consider having naloxone available in your home for the quickest response during a medical emergency. Learn more about how to get naloxone and how to use it here: Opioid Overdose Reversal Medications.

What is your school district doing? Hood River County School District provides comprehensive drug and alcohol education aligned with the 2023 Oregon Health Education Standards. In addition, we care deeply about the health and safety of every student in our school community.☐ In alignment with school district policy, all schools will stock naloxone and necessary medical supplies. Staff may administer naloxone to any person suspected of experiencing an opioid overdose. Anytime naloxone is administered school staff will call 911 and notify the student’s parents or guardian.

In alignment with school district policy, our schools and district facilities stock naloxone and necessary medical supplies. Staff may administer naloxone to any person suspected of experiencing an opioid overdose. Anytime naloxone is administered, school staff will call 911 and notify the student’s parent or guardian. 

We know these conversations can be difficult. Your school administrator is the best person to contact should you have questions.