The Batesville Community School Corporation, Oldenburg Academy, and St. Louis School are joining together to help raise awareness about the devastating effects of heroin. Did you know the monthly use of heroin in our area is significantly above the state average in grades 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12? Statistics tell us that the average age of first time use is 14. Besides the fact that the possession of heroin is a Class D felony, it is destroying the lives of many young people.
We are implementing a two prong approach in bringing awareness to the community. Together, with your help, we can make a difference.
1) For our Junior High & High School Students:
Read the story of Brandi Allen, who was recently featured in Seventeen magazine (click here to read). Brandi lost her two best friends to heroin overdoses within two days. She will share her story, answer questions and be available to interact with the students. You can also read an article featured on page 16 of Country Roads Magazine about an overdose of one of our own Batesville children here titled, “The Sharp Knife of a Short Life”.
2) For our Parents and Community Members:
- Get informed
- Learn about the warning signs
- Find out about intervention resources
Together we can save the lives of our young people!
Sincerely,
Rick Fledderman, Mayor City of Batesville |
Jim Roberts, Superintendent Batesville Community School Corporation |
Sr. Therese Gillman, President Oldenburg Academy |
Chad Moeller, Principal St. Louis School |
Stan Holt, Chief of Police Batesville Police Department |
Tim Putnam, Chief Executive Officer Margaret Mary Health |
Please also read & share the following resources:
- Heroin Fact Sheet
- Substance Abuse & Addiction Resources in IN, KY and OH
- Article on Youth drug use in Indiana: Upward trend in marijuana
use, smokeless tobacco - Report on Youth drug use in Indiana (page 8)
- The Healing Place of Huntington
- Batesville CHOICES Program
If you have additional questions or would like to get involved, please contact
Dr. Jim Roberts via e-mail at jroberts@batesville.k12.in.us or by telephone at 812-934-2194