If your son or daughter violates the Livonia CSD policy concerning alcohol or drugs, the student will be referred for a school-based screening. This confidential school-based interview is just a screening, not a formal evaluation.

We know that students who are involved in experimentation with drugs or alcohol at an early age are at higher risk for substance abuse problems later in their lives. By screening students who have violated the school policy, we can intervene early when it can make the most difference.

Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory is a paper-pencil questionnaire that assesses a student's risk for chemical dependency. This is a standard instrument and well validated.

2) Personal use history

This is a self-report of alcohol and/or drug use history, types, quantities, and frequencies. Are all students honest when talking about this? Not always, but it's a start.

Construction of a family tree. Students will be asked if any family members have had DWIs, attendance at rehab. facilities, drug/alcohol-related arrests, or if they are uncomfortable with the drinking/drug use behavior of anyone in their immediate environment. This is used to determine environmental and genetic risk factors.

While a student might not be perceived as alcohol or drug dependent, even occasional use of substances can interfere with school, grades, relationships with family and friends, or performance at a job.

Based on the information gathered during this interview, direction for the safest and healthiest behavior choices are given to the student. At this time there may also be recommendations or referrals for additional services, such as tutoring, individual or family counseling, or a more formal/thorough substance use assessment conducted by a community agency or family pediatrician.

If you have any questions about this interview process or its content, would like to refer your child, or would like to see the forms and questionnaires currently in use, please contact the HS Counseling Center at 346-4040 x1091.