Drug-Free Workplace/Tobacco and Vaping Products Policy
Subject: Drug-Free Workplace Notification
From: The Superintendent of Lehighton Area School District
To: The Employees of Lehighton Area School District
This notification serves to remind all employees of the Lehighton Area School District's commitment to maintaining a safe and productive, drug-free workplace. All District employees are prohibited from the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession and/or use of controlled substances in district schools, facilities and property. You are further notified that as a condition of district employment, you must comply with Board policy and notify your building principal, immediate supervisor or Superintendent of your conviction of a criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in the workplace immediately, but no later than seventy-two (72) hours after such conviction.
Dangers of Controlled Substance Abuse
Controlled Substance abuse poses significant health and safety risks. The long-term effects of drug abuse can include liver, kidney, and heart problems, cancer, and dental health issues. It can also lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Drug use can increase the risk of infectious diseases, motor vehicle accidents, and may lead to poor performance at work or school.
Controlled substance abuse in the workplace is a danger to all students and employees. District schools and property are designated by federal and state laws and Board policy and District administrative regulations as drug-free workplaces.
District Policy and Penalties
The Lehighton Area School District's Controlled Substance Abuse Policy (Policy 351) strictly prohibits employees from unlawfully manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, possessing, or using any controlled substance in the workplace.
The District shall take appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment and referral for prosecution, of an employee who is convicted of a criminal drug statute, in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, and Board policy. An employee who is convicted of delivery of a controlled substance or of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver or convicted of an offense defined as a felony under the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, shall be terminated from District employment, in accordance with applicable law, regulations and Board policy.
Federal law requires the District to maintain a drug-free workplace, at which marijuana of any kind is prohibited.
Available Counseling and Assistance
The District is committed to supporting our employees' well-being. Confidential counseling and assistance are available through the following resources:
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Carbon, Monroe, Pike Drug and Alcohol Commission: The Commission provides outpatient treatment and various services for substance use disorders. You can contact them at their 24/7 hotline at 1-866-824-3578.
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Mutual of Omaha: The EAP is a confidential program available to all full-time employees and their eligible family members. It provides access to master's-level professionals who can offer individual assessments and counseling for a variety of personal and professional issues, including drug and alcohol abuse. You can access EAP services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 1-800-316-2796.
All District employees shall receive this notice in accordance with applicable law and Board policy.