BENNETTSVILLE- March 25th marked the initial meeting between Marlboro County School District, Trinity Behavioral Health, and the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office as they begin a joint partnership focused on strengthening prevention efforts for students, families, and the Marlboro County community.
During this initial meeting, all partners aligned on a shared vision to proactively address substance use, including vaping, drug use, and alcohol use, through education, awareness, and intervention strategies that will be implemented in the upcoming school year.
Beginning next school year, Marlboro County School District will introduce a research-based prevention program, Too Good for Drugs, at the Marlboro County High School Freshman Academy. This program will focus on equipping students with decision-making skills, understanding social influences, and promoting healthy choices. A School Resource Officer, alongside professionals from Trinity Behavioral Health, will lead prevention-based lessons and provide ongoing support to students throughout the school year. Students will participate in vaping awareness sessions and receive education on current drug trends to better understand the risks and long-term impacts of substance use.
The district will also explore adjustments to its disciplinary approach regarding vaping. One of the areas the district will review is that, rather than relying solely on suspension, plans are being developed to implement after-school intervention classes that will involve both students and parents. This approach will focus on accountability, education, and family engagement.
To better understand student needs, the district will administer the Communities That Care Survey to students in grades 6 through 12 during the upcoming school year. The data collected will help guide decision-making and support strategies that promote student well-being and positive outcomes.
As part of this partnership, all district staff will receive professional development to increase awareness and strengthen their ability to identify and respond to student needs. Trinity Behavioral Health will also provide counseling and prevention services at no cost to the district.
Dr. Michael Thorsland, Interim Superintendent of Marlboro County School District, stated: “This first meeting represents an important step forward as we work together to proactively support our students. Through this partnership, we will implement meaningful strategies in the upcoming school year that focus on prevention, education, and student well-being.”
Mrs. Hazel Ellison, Executive Director of Student Services, stated: “This initiative allows us to take a comprehensive approach in working with students, families, and staff. We are committed to providing prevention and education services, which will enable our students to make positive, informed decisions.”
Sheriff Larry McNeil, Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office, stated: “This partnership is about being proactive and being present in our schools and within our community. We are committed to education, prevention, and working alongside our School Resource Officers to guide our youth in making safe and healthy choices. Sheriff Larry McNeil also expresses gratitude that the South Carolina opioid relief fund provides funding that enables participation by adding a deputy who also serves as a drug prevention officer, working through Trinity Behavioral Care to assist the school resource officer in disseminating awareness by educating our community about the dangers these products can produce, which will help create a more successful future for our children. ”
Through this collaborative effort, Marlboro County School District, Trinity Behavioral Health, and Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office are proud to reiterate their joint commitment to the success of all students, safety of all citizens, and well-being of all Marlboro County families.
