Substance abuse affects American children across all geographic and economic boundaries and has been linked to poor academic performance, truancy, and dropping out. Schools lacking clear alcohol and drug policies are more likely to experience problems with substance abuse. A districtwide substance abuse policy makes a public statement that educators are aware of and have a consistent approach to the problem. A policy should begin with a philosophical statement outlining the district's position on substance abuse. The discipline code should clearly specify what constitutes a drug offense. These measures should be accompanied by intervention and prevention policies. Developing these policies should involve all stakeholders in the educational community, including students, educators, parents, law enforcement personnel and citizens. Once a substance abuse policy is created, communication and revision of the policy should be ongoing. In implementing a substance abuse policy, schools should balance their obligation to provide a safe school environment with students' privacy and right to due process. (JPT)