Dear Parents and Guardians
The purpose of this communication is to inform you of a troubling occurrence from a school district in a neighboring county. District officials confiscated several devices that tested positive for fentanyl. Fentanyl is undetectable by taste or smell but can be lethal for someone that uses it, even upon the first exposure. Beyond use, fentanyl can be fatal even through handling due to absorption through the skin. Symptoms can include disorientation, coughing, drowsiness, dizziness, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, blue lips or fingernails, respiratory distress, or cardiac arrest. While we have not had any similar incidents at Chestnut Ridge School District, the fact that this drug has been located in close proximity led us to take this opportunity to share this information with you in the sincere hope that you will talk to your child regarding the risks associated with vaping.
If you have any concerns that your child has been vaping, please reach out to your school office for assistance in being connected with confidential drug and alcohol counseling.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mark J. Kudlawiec