This digest, based on a longer document titled "Alcohol and Other Drugs: Use, Abuse, and Disabilities" by Peter E. Leone, addresses the following questions: (1) "Are students with disabling conditions more likely to use or abuse alcohol or other drugs than their peers?" (usually a "no" response); (2) "Are students with problems of alcohol and drug dependency entitled to special education and related services?" (not under the Individuals with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973); (3) "How should schools respond to students enrolled in special education programs who use drugs and/or alcohol?" (develop awareness and prevention activities and referral to treatment efforts); and (4) "How can schools and educators deter students enrolled in special education programs from using drugs and alcohol?" (despite the lack of effectiveness data on school-based prevention programs, there is some evidence that schools can provide quality educational services and coordinate with other agencies). Includes 10 references and a list of 4 additional resources. (DB)