Dear DVC Families,
Yesterday there was a serious incident involving the distribution and use of a drug on the Communications campus. This letter is to give you as much information about the incident as possible, while respecting the boundaries of confidentiality and applicable laws and policies.
During second period in an 11th grade class students were working at a table just outside the classroom. One student distributed what appeared to be mints to three students. The mints were actually Xanax, a prescription medication to reduce anxiety. One student who took the drug fell and went for a medical evaluation. The family reports that the student is fine and will return to school tomorrow.
The incident occurred right before lunch and we became aware of it a few minutes later. We immediately worked with families to take care of all students affected. Law enforcement and Da Vinci’s organizational leadership were contacted. We have taken this incident very seriously and all consequences for students have and will be handled individually with those students and families. According to our handbook, the consequences for drug possession, use or distribution on campus can include suspension, expulsion, counseling, community service and any actions taken by law enforcement.
We are a small close-knit community, and while the incident directly involved a very small number of students, these choices affect all of us through our school culture. This morning we came together as a staff to discuss this incident so that we could thoughtfully and appropriately communicate the incident to students. We have spoken to all classes today about the importance of keeping trust in our community and doing the right thing to care for each other. I encourage you to talk to your child about the incident, about making good choices and talking to adults when something is not right.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.
Thank you,
Nathan Barrymore
Principal, Da Vinci Communications
310.725.5800 ext. 4
nbarrymore@davincischools.org