FACTS: Did you know that 60% of AHS students have had an alcoholic drink within the last month? Did you know that the average number of drinks per sitting is three? Did you know that 14% of students have abused pain killers like Oxycodene? These statistics were gathered by Words & Numbers Research, Inc. in a student survey conducted at AHS in 2006.

HISTORY: The Substance Abuse Task Force (SATF) was founded by Vice Principal James Pappa, AHS Staff and parents in 2001. In 2005 the SATF became the Community of Concern. COC booklets were purchased for every high school student. Various parent education programs followed the booklet mailing. Such keynote speakers as: Dr Wilkie Wilson; IMPACT; Jamie Binnall; Dirt; Ed Gerety; Liz Jorgensen; National Drug Enforcement Task Force and a local panel of experts educated our community regarding the issues of underage drug and alcohol abuse. Positive youth development activities for youth have included: dodgeball tournaments; lifesavers with a message; crashed car scenarios; dances; and attendance at local and national conferences. Our programs have been generously subsidized by SDE & CASAC grants; AHS PTO; Avon/Canton Rotary Club; Avon Unico; golf fundraisers and donations by private residents. Thanks to all who have volunteered their time, energy, donations and concern for our youth in the town of Avon.