Regulating and taxing marijuana is proving to have many unexpected consequences — both good and bad. But here’s one that nobody saw coming.
Legal Colorado weed is flying off the shelves at such a high rate that it has created a tax surplus. And that extra dough in the public coffers — about $66 million — may soon go to schools. Almost half of those funds, $29 million, will go toward grants to prevent school bullying.
The Colorado Department of Eduction will give about 50 schools up to $40,000 a year for a program designed to combat those juvenile jerks.
According to the CDE:
Bullying affects thousands of students each year. Although prevalence rates vary from study to study, around 30% of students report being a part of bullying as either a victim or perpetrator. Involvement in bullying, regardless of one’s role, can have lasting negative consequences including decreased academic achievement, increased likelihood of dropping out of school, depression, and anxiety.
The program offers a three-pronged approach to the problem:
- Implementing evidence-based bullying prevention practices with fidelity.
- Family and community involvement in school bullying prevention strategies.
- Adopting specific policies concerning bullying education and prevention.
“It’s a lot of money,” said Dr. Adam Collins,bullying prevention and education grant coordinator for the CDE. “It’s a great opportunity for schools to apply and make sure the social and emotional wellness of their students is taken care of.”
Colorado schools have until Oct. 21 to apply for the grant. The 50 winning schools will be announced in December and funds will be allocated in January.
