Our Mission

The mission of the Hernando County Schools Substance Abuse Prevention & Intervention Program is to provide confidential substance abuse assessment, drug education, crisis intervention, and counseling to students and families. Through collaboration, education, and support, we work to reduce substance use and help students make healthy, positive choices.

Program Highlights

Prevention & Drug Education

Hernando County Schools supports substance abuse prevention through student education and community partnerships. Prevention efforts focus on increasing awareness, building protective factors, and promoting informed decision‑making. The district collaborates with local coalitions and community stakeholders to support outreach, educational activities, and awareness campaigns.

Assessment & Intervention

Students demonstrating substance‑related concerns may be referred for a confidential substance abuse assessment. Assessments are used to identify patterns of use, determine the level of need, and guide appropriate interventions to support student growth and accountability.

Ongoing Support

Students and families receive follow‑up support to help discontinue substance use. Services are designed to support positive behavioral change, reinforce healthy choices, and connect families with additional school‑based or community resources when appropriate.

Who We Serve

This program serves Hernando County Schools students and families who are impacted by substance use concerns. Referrals may come from school administrators, school staff, parents/guardians, or as part of disciplinary or intervention processes. Services are provided in collaboration with the student, family, and school team.

Confidentiality

All services are provided in a confidential and professional manner, in accordance with state and federal laws and School Board policies. Information is shared only with appropriate consent and as required to support student safety and educational planning. Our goal is to ensure students and families feel supported while maintaining privacy.

Working Together

Hernando County Schools believes prevention and intervention are most effective when schools, families, and community partners work together. Through education, accountability, and support, we are committed to helping students stay healthy, engaged, and successful.