In a recent landmark decision, the Colorado State Board of Education has taken the first step in this nation towards correcting the problems that exist with the use of psychiatric drugs in the treatment of “learning disabilities”. Their foresight and actions demonstrate their understanding for the need to eliminate the distribution of mind-altering drugs to school age children.

This is the law that was passed:

“PROMOTING THE USE OF ACADEMIC SOLUTIONS TO RESOLVE PROBLEMS WITH BEHAVIOR,
ATTENTION AND LEARNING

“WHEREAS, the Colorado State Board of Education is constitutionally charged with the general supervision of K-12 public education; and,

“WHEREAS, the Colorado State Board of Education dedicates itself to increasing academic achievement levels for all students; and,

“WHEREAS, the responsibility of school personnel is to ensure student achievement; and

“WHEREAS, only medical personnel can recommend the use of prescription medications; and,

“WHEREAS, the Colorado State Board of Education recognizes that there is much concern regarding the issue of appropriate and thorough diagnosis and medication and their impact on student achievement; and, “WHEREAS, there are documented incidences of highly negative consequences in which psychiatric prescription drugs have been utilized for what are essentially problems of discipline which may be related to lack of academic success;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED,

“that the Colorado State Board of Education encourage school personnel to use proven academic and/or classroom management solutions to resolve behavior, attention, and learning difficulties; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,

“that the Colorado State Board of Education encourage greater communication and education among parents, educators, and medical professionals about the effect of psychotropic drugs on student achievement and our ability to provide a safe and civil learning environment.
Resolution passed and signed November 11, 1999

SOURCE: The Colorado State Board of Education, Resolution of November 11, 1999.