Drug and alcohol use is a serious problem in schools throughout the country and for some adults, the issue continues through a majority of their lives.

The key is to find creative and effective ways to educate our students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use and try to reduce the problem as much as possible.

In the early 1980s, Nancy Reagan introduced her simple, yet powerful “Just Say No” antidrug campaign that according to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation took her to 65 cities in 33 states.

There’s a similar, if more subtle, approach going on right here in Austin.

The Chemical Health Awareness Initiative, an organization at Austin High School that promotes education and alternative activities in the community other than drugs and alcohol, is making good use of a federal grant to get its message across.

The three-year grant adds up to more than $600,000, and the group has used a portion of it to purchase advertisements that feature the words “it’s about you.”

For instance, it’s about a basketball player bringing his or her best game, or a band member playing his or her instrument the best. The bottom line is that no one can be their best if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

This is a powerful message, and we commend CHAI for taking the initiative in getting it out there.