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sd64
Administrative Practices

AP S12 - Naloxone in Schools

Legislative References: School Act Section 88(1); Ministerial Order (M149/89)
Policy Reference:4.10 Healthy and Safe Environments
Collective Agreement References: None
Date:December 10, 2025

The District prioritizes emergency preparedness and response to safeguard the health and well being of students, staff, and visitors and supports the use of naloxone kits in unexpected health emergencies.

The intent of this Administrative Practice is to establish clear guidelines for the prevention, response, and follow-up of opioid overdose incidents in SD64 schools, including the administration of naloxone by trained staff. This Administrative Practice applies to all District sites, with a focus on secondary schools.

Definitions

Naloxone: A medication that reverses opioid overdose effects. Available in nasal spray or injectable form naloxone works by temporarily blocking opioid receptors in the brain, restoring normal breathing in individuals experiencing opioid toxicity. Quick administration of naloxone, along with calling emergency services and providing supportive care, is critical in preventing fatal outcomes. Naloxone kits are considered essential, life-saving tools in the response to suspected opioid overdoses and are safe for use by non-medical personnel.

Opioid Overdose: A life-threatening condition caused by excessive opioid intake, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Trained Responder: A staff member who has completed approved naloxone administration training.

Processes

1.  Naloxone Kit Management
1.1.
The District Principal responsible for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) shall coordinate the procurement of naloxone kits for all school sites.
1.2.Naloxone kits shall be available at every school.
1.2.1.
Nasal naloxone is preferred for ease of use; injectable kits may be acquired and used where appropriate.
1.3.Kits should be stored with emergency medical supplies in a place easily accessible to staff.
1.4.Site administrators will ensure
1.4.1.
the location of kits is communicated with all worksite staff.
1.4.2.kits are inspected regularly and replaced prior to expiry.


2.Prevention and Education
2.1.
Schools will work with staff to acquire, develop, and implement age-appropriate substance use educational resources. Resources should focus on the risks, recognizing signs of overdose, and how to seek help.
2.2Voluntary naloxone training will be offered to all staff, on recognizing and responding to overdose. Where space and/or funds are limited, priority will be given to first aid attendants, school/site administrators, and Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee members.
2.2.1.
Staff should be aware that overdose response may involve occupational health and safety risks. All district occupational health and safety protocols and training must be followed during response to an unexpected health emergency (including opioid overdose response.)


3.Emergency Response Protocol
3.1In the event of a suspected opioid overdose call 911.
3.2.The trained responder shall follow the SAVE ME protocol:
3.2.1.
Stimulate
3.2.2.Airway
3.2.3.Ventilate
3.2.4.Evaluate
3.2.5.Muscular Injection or nasal spray
3.2.6.Evaluate again
3.3.The trained responder, with the support of the principal/site supervisor or designate, shall manage the scene during an overdose situation. They will coordinate the response, ensuring that emergency services are called, naloxone is administered, and the scene is controlled.
3.4.The trained responder, with the support of the principal/site supervisor or designate, shall record incident details, including time, actions taken, and outcomes.


4.Aftercare and Post Incident Response
4.1Documentation: Complete critical incident forms and injury reports (Schools Protection Program ((SPP)) for student or community; WorkSafe BC First Aid Record for staff).
4.2.Communication:
4.2.1.
Notify caregivers of the incident and the steps taken. Ensure support and resources are available for further assistance.
4.2.2.Inform the Superintendent and School/Site Critical Incident Response Team immediately following the incident and use of naloxone.
4.2.3.Inform the District Principal (OHS).
4.3.Counseling: Ensure services and supports are available to affected students and staff.
4.4.Debriefing: Follow district critical incident protocols.
4.5.Review: Conduct a review of the incident to identify any areas for improvement in the protocol.
4.5.1.
A WorkSafe BC Employer Incident Investigation Report (EIIR) is required for incidents involving employees. The EIIR may be used for review of incidents involving students and visitors.
4.6.Restock: The District Principal (OHS) ensures timely replenishment of kits.


5.Training Resources
5.1All staff are encouraged to complete opioid overdose response training, which includes recognizing signs of overdose and administering naloxone.
5.2.Training can be delivered in person, virtually, or through online courses.
  • Recommended Online Training: Toward the Heart – Naloxone Training Course: A free, self-paced online course provided by the BC Centre for Disease Control. It covers overdose recognition, naloxone administration, and the SAVE ME protocol.
  • Link: https://towardtheheart.com/naloxone-course
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GULF ISLANDS SCHOOL DISTRICT 64