Ohio substance abuse policies, discipline codes, and educational drug abuse prevention programs are reviewed. An effective substance abuse policy is an essential element in the school's efforts to deal with drug and alcohol use. In many U.S. schools, the use of alcohol and drugs interferes with the education process, and it appears that substance abuse prevention programs in schools over the past 20 years have had little impact. The background of the problem and the role of the federal government in the development of school substance abuse policies are reviewed. The issue of student athletes and drug testing is discussed, and two relevant court cases are reviewed. The effects of the Vernonia decision are discussed. To study drug abuse policies in Ohio, high school principals were surveyed. A questionnaire was designed addressing demographics, substance abuse policy elements, substance abuse education options, school and community support, athletic policy considerations, and policy effectiveness. Results are presented for each question in a table format. Findings are discussed and policy implications are drawn out. Guidelines for principals' use in developing substance abuse policies are proposed. (Contains 16 references.) (EMK)