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Polk County Schools hosted a Parent Awareness Night, December 3, 2019, at Polk County High School. The event was to create an awareness for parents, students and community members on three issues facing schools and families: vaping and electronic cigarettes, social media and internet safety, and youth mental wellness. 

 

Employees of Polk County Schools and outside agencies presented the information.

 

Dr. Brandon Schweitzer, principal of PCHS, and Sgt. Pam Cannon, Polk County Sheriff’s Department, presented on vaping and electronic cigarettes. They addressed issues like the harmful nature, legal issues, and health risks associated with vaping.

 

Todd Murphy, principal of Polk County Middle School, and Chris Campbell, Specialist – NC State Bureau of Investigation, presented on social media and internet safety. Campbell addressed the legality of posting and searching for illegal content online, the dangers of online gaming and chatting and the dangers of social media for students and how it can affect their future.

 

Finally, Aaron Greene, superintendent Polk County Schools, and Linda Davidson, Medical Director – Behavioral Health at Blue Ridge Health, presented on Youth Mental Wellness. Davidson presented on Blue Ridge Health’s commitment to provide Polk County Schools’ students wrap around services and making healthcare available to all students. She further provided information on anxiety, depression, and self-harm.

 

Each of the presenters provided those in attendance with valuable information to address these three important and timely issues.

 

For those who could not attend, and who want to see the presentations, Polk County Schools will post the event on YouTube for viewing.