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Graphic explains the dangers of "The Choking Game," a deadly game kids are playing because it produces a high similar to taking drugs; includes list of warning signs. Orlando Sentinel 2011. (MCT Campus)
October 30, 2011
Tanusree Munshi
January 25, 2011
Avnish C. Patel
Artist Profile on Mario Rappa, class of 2011. He is currently starring in Starstruck Theatre’s Annie as cabinet-member Harold Ickes.
A Breathalyzer used to test for alcohol consumption
December 17, 2010
Avnish C. Patel
This previous Saturday, December 11, Washington High School had its Winter Ball. Despite the festivities enjoyed by the attendees, the sentiment of the occasion was slightly disturbed by some students possible experimentation with drugs. During sixth period the previous day, Assistant Principal Sean Moffatt made an announcement over the intercom regarding the dance. Apparently information was made available that certain individuals would be attending the dance under the influence of drugs, so the administration warned that they would be testing for illegal substances.
The main concern of the administration is the safety of the students and faculty of the school. A safe environment is conducive to education, the reason why students are in school. Because of the tip that certain students might come to the dance after experimenting with drugs, the administration took the initiative to warn the student body against this. The warning was meant to serve as a deterrent and Mr. Moffatt felt that it served its purpose, as at the dance, he did not get the sense that anything was out of the ordinary as the throngs of dance-goers passed by him at the door. Because of the lack of signs of drug use, no tests had to be administered and the deterrent seemed to work.
Now it seems sad that these individuals who wished to attend the dance “high” would choose drugs. Is it so difficult to enjoy the dance for what it is, a dance? Why are drugs deemed necessary to have a good time? This, unfortunately, is another textbook example of a few individuals making questionable choices and spoiling it for the rest of us, who are just trying to have some good clean fun.
In our generation, drugs seem accessible and almost overt in our everyday lives. We see celebrities in rehab for various addictions and the overall detrimental effects of drugs. However, some still choose the instant gratification of a “high” over the possible long term consequences. Granted a drug like marijuana is lauded as a medicine, but all drugs have their side effects that can drive students into dangerous and compromising situations. In the midst of a dance, with loud music and a crowd, any number of issues can be exacerbated by being under the influence. In effect, drugs taken by any person puts their life in danger as well as the safety of the countless with whom they interact. Mr.Moffatt echoed this sentiment when he affirmed, “If you’re taking drugs, you’re a danger to yourself…School is not a place for those kinds of things.”
It is immediately obvious that it is difficult to eradicate the problem from any one place, as the problem is ubiquitous. Drugs are everywhere and available to those who want them badly enough. However, the drug issue does test the moral discipline and soundness of mind of modern youth… a test they will surely fail if not in their right mind.
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June 26, 2009
Washington’s 450 graduates of the Class of 2009 received diplomas on June 19.
Photo by Paolo Bonaccorsi
