A new study from the University of California San Diego challenges the widespread belief that e-cigarettes aid in smoking cessation. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 U.S. smokers and found that those who vaped, whether daily or occasionally, were actually less likely to quit smoking compared to those who didn’t vape. Specifically, smoking cessation rates…
For the first time in years, drug-related deaths in the U.S. are declining at an unprecedented pace, signaling a potential turning point in the fentanyl crisis. According to new research, overdose fatalities have dropped by roughly 25% nationwide, with some states seeing declines of up to 52.9%. This sharp reduction suggests that a combination of…
Many cough and cold medicines contain dextromethorphan (DXM), a safe and effective cough suppressant when used as directed. However, DXM misuse is on the rise among teens seeking a cheap and easy high. Found in over 70 OTC medicines, DXM in large doses can cause hallucinations, paranoia, impaired coordination, and even life-threatening effects, especially when…
Thursday, March 13, 7 p.m., hybrid hearing The Board of Education will hold a hybrid public hearing on Policy 9250 Weapons on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. Community members must pre-register by 4:30 p.m. on March 12 to testify. Details on pre-registration and testimony are available online.
On March 3, new expectations on student personal technology device use in Howard County Public schools will go into effect. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss these changes with their children so students are prepared to follow the policy changes and avoid facing consequences.
The new Taking Care of Us factsheet is now available, providing key information on suicide prevention and mental health resources for Black and Brown communities. This essential factsheet offers culturally responsive tools to support awareness, healing, and resilience—download it today!
This post was submitted by an anonymous Howard County community member “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” -Mahatma Gandhi. Did you make a New Year’s resolution to better yourself, your community and maybe even the world? There is no better time to honor your promise to…
On Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, the Howard County Board of Education approved adjustments to Policy 8080 – Responsible Use of Technology, Digital Tools, and Social Media, and the Student Code of Conduct that is intended to reduce the use of personal devices by students during the student day. The policy changes will take effect on Monday, March 3, 2025. While…
As cannabis products become more potent, experts are sounding the alarm about their effects on teens and young adults. With THC levels in today’s products often exceeding 90%, the risks are higher than ever. Research shows that More THC, More Often = More Risks, including addiction, cognitive impairments, and serious mental health issues like anxiety,…
As we reach the midpoint of the school year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all our students. One of the most critical issues we face as a school community is bullying, which can have lasting effects on children’s well-being, social…
