The Merryville Public School System (MPSS) is soliciting proposals for a systematic evaluation of whether there is a need to offer preventive programs in their elementary grades to address opioid addiction.
Community health officials have reported increased opioid use and dependence among adults, including those who are parents of younger school-age children. Last year, the county health department began to provide informational posters and brochures for use in the district’s high school (grades 7–12, 160 students). Brochures also were made available to the parents of the high school students and through local businesses and religious organizations. However, it is unknown whether this method has been effective in general or among families with younger school-age children. To date, no direct discussions or education and prevention activities have been planned or developed for use within the district’s elementary school