This description of the Merrillville Substance Abuse Program initially reviews the problems that student drug abuse poses for school administrators. A community needs assessment is described and the evolution of a developmental drug education program is presented. Educational strategies targeted to parents, teachers, and students are discussed, including informational presentations and P.T.O. programs designed to enhance parent-child communications. The efforts to involve students concentrate on the implementation of a system-wide developmental drug education program and a systematic decision-making and coping skills program. The adoption of two programs is discussed, including the Me/Me Program, a developmental curriculum targeted at substance abuse education, self-concept, values clarification, and decision making skills for K-6 students, and the Quest Program for high school students. A pilot program of the Me/Me curriculum, a one-day staff inservice program, and a sixth grade transition program for elementary to junior high school are detailed. Disciplinary actions and future plans for changes in the comprehensive program are also reviewed. (NRB)