KIMBERLY — The Kimberly Area School District’s efforts to combat student substance abuse is getting a little help from those it’s working to protect.

A group of high school students this fall has taken the issue of underage drinking to classmates and also to parents who far too often make the problem possible.

Teacher Steve Jones’ leadership class is focusing on underage drinking prevention as its course project.

Jones said the goal of leadership is leaving the community in better shape than it was upon arriving.

“Our leaders felt they could make an impact on that,” he said.

It’s an important issue throughout the state.

A 2006 U.S. Department of Health survey placed Wisconsin third in the nation in the percentage of underage alcohol use and fifth in the nation for binge use.

Jones’ students already made and distributed brochures on alcohol use that address student athletes and parents. Students said parents are an important component as they’re often the source of alcohol.

They’re working on a Web site that will invite district parents to make a commitment not to host underage drinking parties. Parents will be able to access that list for peace of mind when their students receive an invitation to a friend’s home.

The class also proposed bringing drug and alcohol testing to the high school weight room during the summer to assure athletes who signed the extracurricular code continue to abide by it.

“In the summer, we feel there’s no fear,” junior Chris Dill said.

The overall project is still a work in progress.

Supt. Bob Mayfield said the dedication of the students melds well with overall district efforts to promote the health and welfare of the student body.

The school district began Operation Recommit this year. The renewed focus on drug and alcohol issues included the addition of alcohol testing to its previous policy of random, suspicionless testing for drugs at the high school. Student and community educational programming is also scheduled to begin in the winter months.

School board member Brad Siebers said thanked Jones’ students after a Monday presentation.

“It takes a lot to take a stand at your age,” he said.

Junior Mark Busko said persuading students to make the healthier choice goes beyond the high school doors.

“This could impact them the rest of their lives,” he said.

Jim Collar: 920-993-1000, ext. 216, or jcollar@postcrescent.com