For some, the death of Lemont High School student Jonathan Bielski, 17, of an apparent drug overdose in March opened their eyes to the reality of drug and alcohol usage among local teenagers.

“When John passed away, it was definitely an awakening that there is a problem that needs to be addressed,” said recent LHS graduate Gavin Quinn. “His passing was a terrible thing.”

Bielski’s death also prompted some in the community to wonder whether enough is being done at the high school to make students aware of the dangers of drug use. But Quinn said the blame should not rest at the high school’s door.

“People know the consequences,” he said. “I don’t think (a lack of) education is the problem.”

Tony Hamilton, spokesman for Lemont High School District 210, said many education and prevention efforts have long been in place.

“Lemont High School has been, and will continue to be, committed to promoting a drug- and alcohol-free experience for our students, and to providing assistance to students who are experiencing issues with substance abuse,” Hamilton said.

In a recent internal survey, about half of the high school’s teachers said they address the issue of drug and alcohol abuse in class, Hamilton said.

In AP Statistics, students discuss how the fluctuation of one’s blood-alcohol content affects the ability to operate a car. English classes have done essays on this topic during Red Ribbon Week and in conjunction with the high school’s One Book, One School selection last year, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens.” Drug use also is discussed in the high school’s health and driver’s education classes, biology, chemistry, Family and Consumer Science, physical education, sociology, speech communication and special education.

Students involved in extracurricular activities — including athletics and clubs — must sign an Athletic Code or Activity Code prior to participation. Any time a student involved in extracurricular activities is suspected of violating the codes, the situation is investigated by an Athletic Board and consequences are given. About 85 percent of Lemont High School students are involved in an extracurricular activities.

During Red Ribbon Week, students learn the origin and history of the event as well as the damaging effects of drugs. In each of the past three years, more than 1,000 students have signed an anti-drug pledge and been provided a wristband to recognize their commitment. The students sign canvases to illustrate their commitment, which are displayed at public events such as football games, plays and School Board meetings.

The Pre-Prom assembly discusses the dangerous impact of making poor choices in regards to drugs and alcohol through speakers and multimedia presentations.

Dan Dykshorn, the Lemont Police Department’s liaison officer, accompanies several high school students to Old Quarry Middle School as part of a Model Student program. The students talk with middle schoolers about the dangers of drugs and alcohol and the importance of making good decisions and exhibiting responsible behavior.

Last year, a grant from the Lemont High School Educational Foundation allowed students to hear a speaker from the Franklin Covey Institute, who talked about making good choices.

Parents of students who have drug or alcohol problems are given referrals to local agencies that can provide help. Continuing cooperation is given to students as they transition into these programs.

The high school’s student handbook presents consequences for the use and possession of illegal substances.

“We use an intervention model that encourages students and parents to seek support and counseling in order for the student to stop using drugs,” Hamilton said. “When a student participates in an evaluation by a trained addiction counselor, the length of his or her suspension can be reduced.”

Random annual canine searches involving lockers, parking lots, locker rooms and classrooms are performed. Visual searches of all cars are done during the homecoming dance, and checks are performed for alcohol and drugs in arriving group vehicles at prom.

Dykshorn deals with reported or suspected drug usage with the dean’s office as part of a cooperative effort with the Lemont Police Department.

Hamilton said the high school has done several surveys about drugs and alcohol with the students.

“Results consistently tell us that a majority of drug use by students is done off campus because students believe they will be caught at school,” he said.

Quinn said he is not aware of the drug problem to its full extent.

“It’s here obviously,” he said. “(Bielski’s) death just shows it may be a bigger problem than it seems.”