Pascrell Secured $100,000 to enhance "Stand Tall Program"

PATERSON, NJ - U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. announced today $100,000 in federal funding towards DePaul Catholic High School's Stand Tall initiative - a voluntary, random drug-testing program.  The new funding will allow for a significant increase in the number of students and staff members tested each day.  The Congressman requested this funding and successfully pushed it through the appropriations process.

"Teenagers face a myriad of temptations each day, including peer pressure to experiment with drugs.  Drug prevention can be the most important tool we provide for our children and they must be afforded a healthy and secure learning environment," stated Rep. Pascrell, a former educator and former President of the Paterson Board of Education.  "Our children deserve a fair shot at success and hopefully this program will serve as a springboard from which other anti-drug efforts in the region prosper."

Already in its third year of existence, Stand Tall has established a strong "anti-drug" community at DePaul Catholic High School and is not limited to any particular group of students.  The new federal monies will go toward the hiring of a substance abuse counselor to assist students who test positive and to work with their families.  DePaul also plans to add an additional certified nurse to assist with overall testing efforts.    

"I would like to express my sincerest thanks to Congressman Bill Pascrell and the New Jersey delegation for their support of our Stand Tall program," stated Father Geno Sylva, President of DePaul High School and administrator of the program.  "These funds will help to ensure the safety and drug-free lifestyle of our students."

Under Stand Tall, if a student tests positive they must attend a drug counseling program; if the student tests positive a second time, they are asked to leave the school permanently.  DePaul randomly tests ten students each day while keeping the process anonymous.  During the 2003-04 school year, 80% of DePaul's 600 students were enrolled in where parents sign a contract allowing their child to be tested for illegal substances.

"Programs like Stand Tall allow parents and teachers to build strong and drug-free communities in schools," stated Rep. Michael Ferguson (R-NJ-7) who also helped appropriate the funding.  "By providing projects like Stand Tall with the resources they need, we are helping to ensure a safe environment where our children can focus on learning."

"DePaul has implemented a stellar program and I am proud to use my time in Washington to focus on ways we can support our schools and children's future," added Congressman Pascrell.  "As a former teacher, parent and elected official,  I am committed to empowering our students to focus on learning and reach their full potential."

"With the vast majority of students now enrolled in the program, the DePaul community continues to lead by example.  Students are nurtured with the values that help bring forth success and I applaud Father Geno for all he has done. The students, teachers and parents of DePaul have shown a firm resolution to excel, and great commitment to be positive forces in our community.  It is my privilege to help in any way I can."

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