Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has announced new guidance for responding to medical emergencies at school in which an individual may be experiencing a suspected opioid overdose. The new regulation includes detailed guidance on naloxone (also known by its brand name, Narcan), its use and access in MCPS schools. Narcan is a potentially life-saving medication that temporarily reverses the effects due to an opioid overdose. This action is part of a series of efforts the school system is undertaking to combat the rise in youth overdose cases across the county.
The new guidance allows students to carry Narcan in schools and during school-sponsored activities without fear of disciplinary action. Students should continue to seek assistance from school or health room staff in the event of a medical emergency on campus.
Each school has emergency action plans in place that address medical emergencies, which include the administration of Narcan by school nurses or other trained personnel in the event of a suspected opioid overdose. The new guidance provides greater detail about Narcan training, storage and administration by school personnel. Though every MCPS school has maintained a Narcan supply since the 2018-2019 school year, with the increase in opioid-related events in youth, MCPS has increased the number of doses stored in middle and high schools, and identified additional individuals in schools for hands-on training.
As the majority of youth overdoses occur off school grounds, MCPS and county public health and safety agencies continue to stress the importance of increasing awareness and offering training and resources to youth and community members.
County Trainings & School Health and Wellness Fair
Montgomery County residents can access naloxone and get trained on how to use it for free without an individual prescription. The county offers trainings and access to free naloxone. To learn more, visit the county’s Know the Risks webpage or call Montgomery County’s Department of Health and Human Services at 240-777-1836.
Empowering youth and caregivers through education, mental health skills training, and connection to community resources remains essential to combating the youth opioid epidemic. As part of the district’s efforts to educate and engage with families, MCPS is holding a Health and Wellness Fair this Saturday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to noon at Seneca Valley High School, 19401 Crystal Rock Drive in Germantown. Families and community members are invited to attend educational sessions on mental health and wellness in English and Spanish. Training and distribution of Narcan kits will be provided at the event. To RSVP to this event, please fill out this Google form.
Featured photo courtesy of MCPS: MCPS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Patricia Kapunan discusses a new MCPS regulation allowing students to carry Narcan. She appears at a press conference today alongside representatives from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, the Montgomery County Police Department and the Montgomery County Fire Department.
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FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
