Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office Provides $2,000 to Local Student Drug Free Program

ZANESVILLE, OH – Mid-East Career & Technology Centers recently received a donation for their Drug Free ME program.

Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch presented Mid-East with a $2,000 check in recognition of the school’s approach to drug prevention and student wellness.

Prosecutor Welch provided the support for the program after learning about the impact it can have on students’ lives and these funds will help to offset costs of the program throughout the year.

The Drug Free ME program is where students voluntarily commit to living drug free through confidential drug tests. There are currently 400 students from the Buffalo and Zanesville campuses enrolled in the program. To join, students simply complete an initial drug test and then remain a part of the 25% random testing pool. Random testing will begin in January and run through April and if a student tests positive their family will be contacted by the testing company to review prescribed medications as well as offer resources if needed.

Students receive monthly incentives like ice cream sundae bars, food rewards, early release privileges as well as enjoying dismissal a few minutes early from school each Friday afternoon.

The program also offers lottery drawings for homework passes and discounts from community businesses for students who present their Drug Free ME membership card.