For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Rockland’s Rogers Middle School Hosts ‘Hidden in Plain Sight’ Exhibit

ROCKLAND — Principal Beth Bohn is pleased to announce that Rogers Middle School hosted a “Hidden in Plain Sight” exhibit during parent-teacher conferences earlier this month.

The demonstration, held on Nov. 15, displayed a mock teenager’s bedroom that parents and guardians were able to view with the assistance of a Rockland Police officer.

The fake bedroom had several items that could be used as drug paraphernalia, as well as hiding places for drugs, drug paraphernalia and alcohol. The program, created by Power to the Parent, helps parents to recognize potential signs that their teens could be using drugs or alcohol.

“This display was a great way to show parents some of the things that they might ordinarily pass over when in their child’s room, not thinking that they could be linked to drug or alcohol use,” Principal Bohn said. “Keeping our students drug and alcohol free is a priority of the district and parents at home are our partners in reaching that goal.”

In addition to the exhibit, Rockland’s Photovoice Project was also put on display. Photovoice was created by the Brockton Area Prevention Collaborative. It is a community art project that uses photography to describe the strengths, weaknesses and overall health of a community. Poster boards of some of the photos were on display next to the mock bedroom.

The overall display was put together by Rockland Community, Awareness, Resources, Education and Support (CARES). Rockland CARES provides resources, information and support for people suffering from addiction. The group also makes resources available for families looking for support.

The event was part of Rockland Public Schools’ ongoing efforts to prevent drug and alcohol use among students.

On Oct. 11, members of Rockland CARES presented “Prescription for Education” to Rogers Middle School seventh and eighth grade students. The presentation included topics such as substance abuse, overdose prevention and current trends highlighting the increase in underage vaping.

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