From the early 1970s through the mid-1980s schools and communities were in chaos, attempting to respond to what was inaccurately perceived as a single drug epidemic. While there has been some improvement in delivering services, and state departments of education have developed guidelines which have helped school programs to function, problems still remain. It is becoming evident that just as there were several mini-epidemics simultaneously involving different populations and substances, stemming the tide of chemical use requires a range of services. These services must include prevention and treatment referral. Successful prevention efforts should include written policies and procedures; establishment of a philosophy based on empirical research; identification of problems and development of goals; and involvement of community and student groups. Research on drug abuse is available and needs to be used. (Research information on prevention programming by grade level is presented in a chart. The process of developing a comprehensive K-12 drug abuse prevention program of the Clifton Public Schools in Clifton, New Jersey is summarized and relevant documents are included.) (ABL)