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The message to students used to be simple: "Just say no." But in today's schools, that message is not only outdated, it may be part of the problem.

Across Canada, student substance use is a growing concern. According to the most recent national student survey , 15% of students in Grades 7–12 reported vaping in the past month, and 18% identified using multiple substances at the same time. Many Grade 7 students could not identify the health risks of substances they can easily access.

Schools want to respond more effectively. But many are doing so without a clear roadmap.

New standard based on evidence

A new cross-Canada standard , to be officially launched soon, aims to change that.…