Press Releases:

Monroe County Schools Use New Strategies to Reduce Underage Drinking

KEY WEST, FL -- Monroe County Schools are some of many Florida schools utilizing a new tool to detect and deter alcohol use and possession on school property. Passive Alcohol Sensor (PAS) flashlights are to be used in Monroe County High Schools and for extracurricular activities on school properties.

Monroe County Coalition for a Safe and Drug Free Community members Superintendent Randy Acevedo and Safe and Drug Free School Coordinator Sunny Booker presented the first PAS flashlight to Marathon High School Principal Harry Russell and SAC President Katrina Wiatt following Monroe County Challenge Day February 2. The flashlights are to be used at upcoming events like Prom.

PAS flashlights have been successful in other schools in Florida to create a no-tolerance message to teens. State level Alcohol Beverage and Tobacco has already begun operations in checking that convenience stores are in compliance to reduce alcohol sales to minors. Providing alcohol to a minor is against the law. Adults who provide alcohol could face criminal and or civil charges.

Also, Key West High School SAC, Marathon SAC and the Coral Shores SAC have adopted a new Prevention of Underage Drinking Social Marketing Campaign entitled “Be the Wall.” This new multi-media campaign is intended to encourage and support parents to Be The Wall when it comes to underage drinking. This Monroe County collaboration is one of many across the state working to reduce underage drinking in Florida. Be The Wall social marketing campaign and PAS flashlights were supplied by Monroe County Coalition for a Safe and Drug Free Community.