Attention parents of junior high and high school students in Logan County:  For the 2000-2001 school year, a parent network and directory is being organized for parents who oppose youth use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. This is being coordinated by Heartland Coalition for Youth and Families in cooperation with the Chester-East Lincoln Community Consolidated School District 61, Hartsburg-Emden District 23, Lincoln Elementary District 27, Lincoln Community High School District 404, Mount Pulaski District 23, New Holland-Middletown District 88, West Lincoln-Broadwell Elementary District 92, Carroll Catholic School, Lincoln Zion Lutheran School and Mount Pulaski Zion Lutheran School.

The basis for the program is research and experience showing that parents who state clear rules against use and who monitor youth activities to ensure rules are followed greatly decrease the odds of alcohol, tobacco or other drug use by their children. The network directory is a help to parents in setting explicit rules and contacting other parents about particular youth events.

Detailed information will be available at school registration in the three participating districts. Questions about the network can be directed to Tonya Payne at the Heartland Coalition office: 217-482-3012.