First School Cannabinoid Policy Passed In Peyton

PEYTON, Colo. (CBS4)- The state's first school cannabinoid policy was passed in Peyton on Thursday which allows the therapeutic administration of cannabinoid products on school property.

The Board of Education in School District 49 unanimously passed "Jaxs' policy" at its regularly scheduled monthly meeting.

"In designing this policy we were careful to meet the needs of students whose lives have changed because of cannabinoid therapy, while ensuring the safety of all our learners," said Peter Hilts, District 49 Chief Education Officer, in a statement.

The policy is named for Sand Creek High School 11th grader Jackson "Jax" Stormes.

The 16-year-old was suspended in May 2015 for carrying cannabis oil to school as a seizure treatment. Jaxs suffers from Dravet Syndrome, a rare and catastrophic form of intractable epilepsy as well as Juvenile Parkinson's Disease.

His mother said after trying several treatments and drug combinations, the cannabis oil was the only thing that helped him feel better and kept his seizures in control.

Now students with severe medical needs can continue their cannabis treatment while at school.

Additional Information about the policy from District 49:

With a doctor's recommendation, students may only receive non-inhalable forms at school. The permissible products are intended to allow quick ingestion and extended release.

The permissible forms include oils, tinctures, edible products, patches or lotions. With a signed administration plan for a student, his or her treatment may only be administered in approved locations on school property.

Any cannabinoid product intended for recreational use is not permitted. Violations of the policy may lead to disciplinary action, including recommendations for suspension or expulsion, in accordance with all applicable policies.

To be qualified under the policy, a student must have a valid registration from the state of Colorado for the use of cannabinoid products, a written statement from a parent or guardian that assumes responsibility for the administration and releases the district from liability of any injury that the therapy may cause.

A written plan that identifies the form, location and protocol must be signed by the school nurse, school administrator, the qualified student (if capable) and a parent or guardian, before any administration can occur.