Prior to this year, drug education was not a part of the NDA curriculum because most students undergo health classes in middle school. But with the addition of seventh grade students to the Notre Dame population, the administration was faced with the prospect of drug counseling. Office Joel Salituri was hired, since he has an extensive background not only as a police officer, but as a drug expert. Last week, the Notre Dame Academy girls gathered in the auditorium for a drug and alcohol presentation headed by none other than their new drug counselor.

Officer Salituri is a nationally recognized “Drug Recognition Expert” (DRE) and completed some of his training in Maricopa County Penitentiary, which is located in Arizona. While at Maricopa, Officer Salituri had hands-on interactions with people who had ingested copious amounts of drugs, was trained in how to deal with those people, and even witnessed a few overdoses. This background, combined with his knowledge of criminal law, more than qualified him for his position here at NDA.

The tension in the auditorium dissipated the moment Officer Salituri introduced himself. Personable and honest, his presentation was informative though frightening and memorable. He discussed the physical and mental dangers of alcohol, cough syrup, ecstasy,(and its synthetic affiliates,) cigarettes, prescription drugs (when abused,) and heroin.  His discussion included the legal ramifications that possessing/abusing/dealing any of the aforementioned substances would have on a Notre Dame girl and possibly, her family.

This assembly was the perfect introduction to Officer Salituri, and because of it students feel more comfortable approaching him with their questions and concerns. The stage provided the platform to elevate Officer Salituri’s already high esteem, and will live in the memory of all that participated in it.