The possession, use, or distribution of illegal and synthetic drugs is prohibited on campus or at College-sponsored events. These drugs include the following
- Illegal drugs (also includes any form of substance containing THC**).
- Synthetic drugs (K2 and other synthetic cannabinoids, bath salts, or other legal or illegal products which, when consumed mimic the effects of cannabis or other illegal drugs).
- Over-the-counter medications for which the student has not been prescribed or that the student uses counter to the directions of a valid prescription.**(see medical marijuana notation below).
Although medical marijuana may be legal in Missouri under certain restrictions, possession and use of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. Consistent with federal law, including the Controlled Substances Act and the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations [EDGAR, 34 CFR Part 86], the use and/or possession of marijuana continues to be prohibited for all Cottey students on campus or at College-sponsored events. Additionally, possession of drug paraphernalia, including hookahs, is also prohibited. Anyone found guilty of violating this regulation may be dismissed from campus. Those found responsible for a violation of Cottey College’s Drug Policy will be subject to the institution’s Major Violation Grievance Procedure and could face disciplinary sanctions including, but not limited to, expulsion from the institution.
As a matter of policy, the College also notifies and involves local law enforcement authorities in all situations where a violation of Missouri or federal laws governing controlled substances appears to have occurred. Pursuant to FERPA, the College may also notify the parents or guardians of students under the age of 21 who are alleged to be in violation of this policy. The College may contact parents or guardians prior to any disciplinary hearing and is not required to inform students of the notification. The vice president for student life and enrollment will maintain a record of any parental disclosures that will be provided to the student involved upon request.
Drug Abuse Health Risks
- Brain health: Marijuana can cause permanent IQ loss of as much as eight points when people start using it at a young age. These IQ points do not come back, even after quitting marijuana.
- Mental health: Studies link marijuana use to depression, anxiety, suicide planning, and psychotic episodes. It is not known, however, if marijuana use is the cause of these conditions.
- Athletic performance: Research shows that marijuana affects timing, movement, and coordination, which can harm athletic performance.
- Driving: People who drive under the influence of marijuana can experience dangerous effects: slower reactions, lane weaving, decreased coordination, and difficulty reacting to signals and sounds on the road.
- Baby’s health and development: Marijuana use during pregnancy may cause fetal growth restriction, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with brain development, resulting in hyperactivity and poor cognitive function. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other chemicals from marijuana can also be passed from a mother to her baby through breast milk, further impacting a child’s healthy development.
- Daily life: Using marijuana can affect performance and how well people do in life. Research shows that people who use marijuana are more likely to have relationship problems, worse educational outcomes, lower career achievement, and reduced life satisfaction.
More information available at the following link Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Other drugs
- Cocaine: Highly addictive, cocaine is involved in nearly one in five overdose deaths; its health effects include asthma, bowel decay, and increased risk of HIV.
- Methamphetamine (Meth): Meth causes devastating health effects, and sometimes death, even on the first try. Meth speeds up the body’s systems to dangerous levels. Chronic users experience anxiety, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, aggression, and more.
- Prescription and illicit opioids: Highly addictive, the substances are the top cause of overdose deaths; health effects include confusion, nausea, constipation, coma, and brain damage.
More information is available at the following link Adult Drug Use.