It has been argued that alcoholism is the single worst social affliction in the world. In addition to the dangers of drinking and driving, alcohol and other drugs also have a detrimental and disruptive impact on education. Harassed principals and teachers are distracted from the main mission of education by violence and other anti-social behavior brought about in part by the direct or indirect use of drugs. Alcohol abuse lowers performance and grades, creates disruptive classroom behavior, increases school vandalism, and impedes the learning process for non-drinking students. For these reasons the President has made the prevention of alcohol and drug abuse a high priority. And the key to prevention is education concerning the truth about alcohol. For 10 years the Department of Education has been developing school-based alcohol and drug abuse education programs. The Department's primary goal is to provide leadership, training and technical assistance to school systems to use local resources to deal with local problems. The program has established teams of school and community personnel, supported by training and follow-up assistance, in every state and territory. A growing number of parent groups is springing up all over the country as well. Those interested in acting for change can make a difference that may literally change the world. (JAC)