As the U.S. sees more states legalize recreational cannabis, research is emerging about its effects on communities, particularly on schools located near dispensaries. In a recent study, Angus Kittelman, Assistant Professor of Special Education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, and Gulcan Cil, Senior Statistician at Oregon Health & Science University, explore how cannabis outlets impact local schools and students.
The Negative Impact of Cannabis Dispensaries Near Schools
The presence of cannabis dispensaries near schools, especially middle schools, is associated with negative consequences. One of the most concerning outcomes is an increase in office discipline referrals related to substance use. These referrals typically occur when students are caught using substances like cannabis at school, leading to a loss of valuable instructional time.
Adolescent cannabis use is linked to a range of negative health outcomes, including impaired cognitive function and a higher risk of developing mental health or substance use disorders. Studies also show that students who use cannabis are less likely to finish high school or attend college, further highlighting the long-term consequences of early use.
The study, conducted in Oregon following the state’s 2015 legalization of recreational cannabis, found that middle schools within a 1-mile radius of dispensaries saw a 44% increase in substance use referrals. These schools reported an average of one to two additional referrals annually compared to those located further away from dispensaries.
Understanding the Link Between Dispensaries and Discipline Referrals
While the increase in substance use referrals doesn’t necessarily mean all incidents are directly linked to cannabis, it does suggest a correlation between proximity to dispensaries and student behavior. Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances among adolescents, with 8.3% of eighth graders reporting use, compared to higher rates for substances like alcohol and nicotine.
Access to legal cannabis may normalize its use for young people, especially when advertising and signage are more prevalent in neighborhoods with dispensaries. Increased exposure to cannabis marketing can reduce adolescents’ perception of the health risks associated with the substance, making them more likely to experiment with it.
The Challenges of Defining the Impact Area
The study looked at a 1-mile radius from dispensaries, which may seem like a large area, but it is significant given how middle school students typically travel. Many students walk or use public transport to school, making it easier for them to access cannabis, even if they are too young to legally purchase it themselves. The proximity to dispensaries increases the likelihood that students will obtain cannabis from friends or other sources, further contributing to the rise in referrals.
Recommendations for Schools
To address these issues, Kittelman and Cil recommend that school staff closely monitor discipline referrals related to substance use. By identifying patterns, schools can implement targeted interventions in areas where substance use is most prevalent, such as hallways, bathrooms, or playgrounds.
Proactive strategies, such as drug resistance programs and emotional regulation training, could help prevent substance use among students. School counselors can play a key role in teaching students how to manage stress and resist peer pressure, providing skills that may reduce the likelihood of cannabis use.
As cannabis dispensaries become more common, schools located near these outlets may face increased challenges with adolescent substance use. While the link between dispensaries and student behavior is not fully understood, the research suggests that proximity to these outlets does have a measurable impact. Addressing these issues through targeted interventions and preventive programs can help mitigate the effects of increased cannabis access on student health and behavior.
