Model health education curriculum addresses alcohol and drug use/abuse.

Instructional programs on the nature of drugs, alcohol, anabolic steroids, tobacco and controlled dangerous substances, as defined in section 2 of P.L.1970, c.226 (C.24:21-2), and their physiological, psychological, sociological and legal effects on the individual, the family and society shall be taught in each public school and in each grade from kindergarten through 12 in a manner adapted to the age and understanding of the pupils. The programs shall be based upon the curriculum guidelines established by the Commissioner of Education pursuant to section 2 of this act, and shall be included in the curriculum for each grade in such a manner as to provide a thorough and comprehensive treatment of the subject.

The Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, shall develop curriculum guidelines for education programs on drugs, alcohol, anabolic steroids, tobacco and controlled dangerous substances. These guidelines shall be reviewed annually, and shall be updated as necessary to insure that the curriculum reflects the most current information available on the nature and treatment of drug, alcohol, anabolic steroids, tobacco and controlled dangerous substance abuse and treatment. The guidelines shall provide for a sequential course of study for each grade, K-12, and shall, at a minimum, include:

• a. Detailed, factual information regarding the physiological, psychological, sociological and legal aspects of substance abuse;
• b. Detailed information concerning the availability of help and assistance for pupils and their families with chemical dependency problems;
• c. Decision making and coping skills; and,
• d. The development of activities and attitudes which are consistent with a healthy life style.

The guidelines shall include model instructional units, shall define specific behavioral and learning objectives and shall recommend instructional materials suitable for each grade level.

1. a. The Department of Education, in consultation with the Division of Addiction Services in the Department of Human Services, shall review the Core Curriculum Content Standard in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education to ensure that guidance for substance abuse instruction incorporates the most recent evidence-based Standard and practices.

Content Area Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Standard 2.3 Drugs and Medicines: All students will acquire knowledge about alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and medicines and apply these concepts to support a healthy, active lifestyle. Strand B. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs