Reaching 110,000 Readers in Print and Online — www.chronline.com $1 108th Swamp Cup Mid-Week Edition Special Insert inside Thursday, Battle of the Twin Cities Oct. 22, 2015 LEWIS COUNTY: Highs and Hopes Higher Education One Student’s Story of Battling Drug Use and a Painful Past By Justyna Tomtas
[email protected] Editor’s Note: In order to protect the privacy of the Centralia High School student interviewed for this story, his name has been changed. Tyler Phillips says he grew up with a mother who was addicted to meth and drank heavily. During his childhood, Phillips remembers having little supervision. His mom was preoc- cupied with seeking her next high, or spending time with her occasionally abusive boyfriends. With a lack of guidance, and the regular role of narcotics and alcohol in his life, Phillips be- gan to experiment with drugs at an early age. His experiences would open doors to more serious drugs, escalating until he spiraled down- ward and sought help. please see HIGHER, page Main 10 Pete Caster /
[email protected] A Centralia High School student who has struggled with drug use poses for a portrait Wednesday. For Centralia Counselor, Helping At-Risk Students Succeed Starts Before Sunrise HELPING: The Changing Landscape of Drugs in Schools and One Employee Who Works to Keep Students on Track By Justyna Tomtas
[email protected] For many educators, workdays start at the crack of dawn. While teachers are getting up early and heading to class, Jessica Boeck is exceeding her assigned du- ties as a Centralia School District employee to make sure the most at-risk students are getting the added help they need to be successful.