Senator Martins Secures State Funding for Substance Abuse & Bullying Prevention Programs in Port Washington

     Senator Jack M. Martins (R-Mineola) has secured state funding for substance abuse & bullying prevention programs in the Port Washington School District. 

     The $25,000 in state funding will support programs offered by the District’s Safety & Substance Abuse Task Force. According to the District, programs supported by the funding will focus on improved education about the gateway drugs that have led to Long Island’s rapidly growing heroin epidemic, as well as bullying prevention. 

     “Substance abuse and bullying are two of the most dangerous challenges students face in their teenage years. The Port Washington School District is taking an aggressive, proactive approach to teaching students about the dangers of drugs and bullying and what steps they can take to protect themselves. This funding will support those efforts and help them keep our children safe,” said Senator Martins. 

     "Up until four years ago, funding for the Task Force was provided through Title IV funds as part of the "No Child Left Behind" law. Today, the Task Force relies on District and outside funding to promote and support various initiatives related to drug prevention, anti-bullying, prom safety, safe driving, and much more. With Senator Martins' assistance, the Task Force can continue its mission of implementing comprehensive school and community approaches fostering a safe and drug-free learning environment," said Dr. Kathleen Mooney, Superintendent of the Port Washington School District.