Christie Visits Nutley School On Anti-Opioid Crusade In NJ

NUTLEY, NJ — New Jersey governor Chris Christie paid a visit to a Nutley elementary school on Tuesday as part of his recent crusade against opiate abuse, urging students to become active participants in the long-term solution to drug abuse.

The governor’s visit with sixth graders at Washington Elementary School in Nutley was facilitated by L.E.A.D., a non-profit organization that provides law enforcement with school-based drug prevention training and resources.

Christie, who recently announced that he was embarking on a statewide crusade against opiate addiction during his State of New Jersey address, encouraged L.E.A.D. students at the school to become active participants in the long-term solution to drug abuse both in New Jersey and across the country.

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“We were honored that Governor Christie took time out of his busy schedule to offer such valuable and motivational words to our Nutley-based L.E.A.D. students,” said Nick DeMauro, executive director and CEO. “The governor’s visit is validation that our program and partner law enforcement officers are providing superior anti-drug education to these young leaders of tomorrow.”

During his visit, Christie told the students that they were the primary line of defense against drug abuse and addiction.

“You’re the most important people in this room because if we’re going to solve this problem, you’re the ones who are going to solve it,” Christie told the students. “You’re going to be smart and you’re going to make good decisions. When you have friends who need help, you’re not going to keep it a secret. You're going to help them get the help they need to feel better and to feel healthier.”

Photo: Law Enforcement Against Drugs

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