A Message from the School System Medical Officer

 

Dear MCPS Community,

Starting July 1, 2023, new Maryland law allows adults age 21 and older to possess a small amount of cannabis for personal, recreational use.

Federal laws including the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) policy IGN, Preventing Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs in Montgomery County Public Schools, that prohibit use, possession or distribution of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs on school property are still in effect. Recreational use, distribution, or possession of cannabis is not permitted on MCPS property by staff members, contractors, volunteers, or community members of any age, except under limited circumstances specified in MCPS Regulation JPC-RA, Administration of Medication to Students. 

Please remember that just because a substance is legal, does not mean it is safe. Alcohol, tobacco products, and cannabis pose greater potential harms to young people, whose brains and judgment are still developing.  Due to the dangers of underage use, these products remain illegal for individuals under 21 years old.

For staff members, alcohol and cannabis use may impair work performance or judgment, and is not permitted during the workday, or at school sponsored activities and events that occur outside of the regularly scheduled workday. This behavior does not align with MCPS’ commitment to student safety and professional excellence and is a violation of the Employee Code of Conduct. Federal law requires public schools receiving federal funds to be drug-free settings, and additional federal restrictions on substance use for commercial vehicle drivers apply to our transportation staff.

MCPS remains committed to a drug free environment and to the wellbeing and success of our students and staff members. We continue to work with county partners for the health and safety of our school community. 

For more information:
Maryland Cannabis Commission: Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization
SAMHSA: Learn About Marijuana Risks
American Academy of Pediatrics: Is Cannabis Harmful for Children and Teens? / ¿El cannabis (marihuana) es dañino para niños y adolescentes?

Dr. Patricia Kapunan
MCPS School System Medical Officer

Mr. Brian Hull
MCPS Chief of Operations