Last fall, more than 2,000 students in grades 6-12 participated in a Pride Survey, a federally endorsed method for tracking behaviors and attitudes about many crucial issues that can affect learning. Parents also participated in the survey at Back to School Night in September.

The data they provided have been analyzed and compared with a similar study conducted in 2002. Findings are in and will be presented at Garden City High School, in the auditorium, Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 7:30 p.m.

According to the survey, LDS, cocaine and inhalant use are above national averages, and student use of alcohol is nearly 50 percent higher than national use rates. Overwhelmingly, students reported that their drinking and drugging take place in the home of a friend and that it is 'very easy' to get drugs and alcohol. Furthermore, students say their peers and parents tolerate these activities.

Cynthia Knowles, a recognized expert in substance abuse prevention, analyzed the data. Knowles will present her findings at the meeting, along with recommendations for improving the problems highlighted by the data.

The information provided by the Pride Survey can be a springboard for affecting change in the culture of drinking and drugging here in Garden City. Parents, community organizations, police, village administrators, churches, schools and businesses, working together, can have a positive influence on the choices our children make.

The school district intends to use the information provided by the survey toward this end and urges all members of the community to attend what is sure to be an informative and eye-opening presentation.