Name: Harm Reduction and Student Substance Use: Building Better School Responses
Start: 2026-08-04T12:00:00-0600
End: 2026-08-04T12:50:00-0600

Harm Reduction and Student Substance Use: Building Better School Responses

LIMITED

Tuesday August 4, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT

Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

This presentation explores how schools can respond more effectively to student substance use through a harm reduction and restorative lens. Participants will examine how stigma creates barriers to trust, support, and help-seeking, often increasing harm. Educators will leave with practical strategies to reduce stigma, build supportive relationships, create safer, more inclusive school environments, and advocate for meaningful change within their schools and communities.

Speakers

Michelle Medved

Middle School Crossroads Counselor, APS

Hello! I am a Middle School Crossroads Counselor with Albuquerque Public Schools (APS), specializing in substance use prevention and intervention for youth and families following a substance-related school infraction. Whether the incident involves nicotine, THC/marijuana, alcohol... Read More →

Lisa Searle

Counselor, APS

I am a dedicated school counselor with 14 years of experience serving students in the Crossroads program, supporting adolescents with diverse academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and career development needs with a main focus on Subtance Use challenges students and families face... Read More →

Samantha Ashby

Counselor, APS

Samantha Ashby is an APS Crossroads Counselor with 13 years of experience, currently working at Sandia High School. The Crossroads Program provides schoolwide support in substance use prevention and intervention, ensuring all students have access to resources and support. Samantha... Read More →