*** Up-to-date Information from Hays CISD regarding fentanyl is published here: https://www.hayscisd.net/fentanyl ***

The following is an email sent to all Hays CISD parents, students, and staff on May 20, 2022:

Dear Hays CISD Family,

As we’re getting ready to end our school year and enjoy the summer, there’s a concern I need to share with all of you.

In a very short period of time, we have started seeing the direct effects of the opioid crisis in our community in a much more pronounced way than we have seen in the past. And, it has had an impact on our students both on campus and at home, including instances of very serious and life-threatening overdoses.

Many of you have likely heard of the growing problem with opioid abuse and overdoses around the country. Opioids are a family of medications and street drugs, such as morphine, Percocet, oxycodone, and heroin. If opioid medications are prescribed and taken responsibly, they can treat pain, but can also be very addictive.

In particular, the drug fentanyl is 100 times stronger than morphine and is being found mixed with other drugs and illegally sold medications. People often have no idea that the pill they’re taking contains fentanyl until it’s too late and they simply stop breathing. This drug is so powerful that it only takes a tiny amount for a person to overdose, which can be fatal if it’s not treated immediately.

To be honest, I’m scared. I’m terrified of what these drugs will do if we don’t keep an eye on those we care about – our students, your children. The district is working with campus administrators, nurses, teachers, law enforcement, and others to make our students as safe as possible while they’re at school.

We are sharing this information with you so you are aware of the increasing local danger and can be vigilant at home during the summer. Parents of students who are heading off to college or away from home for the first time might also consider a conversation about this with their young adult family members. I’ve included some resources below that have a wealth of information to help you with this critical conversation.

Stay safe.

Sincerely,
Justin McCorkle, RN
Director of Student Health Services

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889. A confidential, free, 24/7, 365 days/year, information service for issues on mental or substance-use disorders. https://www.samhsa.gov/

US Department of Health and Human Services National Opioid Crisis Help and Resources
A website with information, resources, and a search feature to find local prevention and treatment resources. https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/