Ron Welch
Muskingum County Prosecutor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, December 12, 2025
Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office Provides $2,000 to Support Local Student Drug Free Program
Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch presented a $2,000 check to the Drug Free ME program at Mid-East Career & Technology Centers, recognizing the school’s proactive approach to drug prevention and student wellness.
Prosecutor Welch provided support to Mid-East after learning more about the program’s impact, noting his strong support for efforts that help students choose and maintain a drug-free lifestyle. The funds will help offset program costs and fund student rewards offered throughout the year.
“This is an excellent program that sets students up for future success,” said Prosecutor Welch. “Students are given the tools necessary to avoid getting involved in drugs. I hope this type of education and prevention program expands to more area schools and positively impacts more students.”
Drug Free ME is a voluntary program that encourages students to commit to living drug free through confidential drug testing and positive incentives. Enrollment currently stands at 400 students across the Buffalo and Zanesville campuses, with one final round of initial testing scheduled for January for those students who were on job placement during the testing days.
To join, students complete an initial drug test and then remain part of a 25 percent random-testing pool. Random testing occurs monthly from January through April. If a student tests positive, the testing company immediately contacts the family to review prescribed medications or to offer resources when needed.
Students receive monthly incentives, such as ice cream sundae bars, fun food rewards and early-release privileges and enjoy dismissals a few minutes early each Friday afternoon. The program also offers lottery drawings for homework passes and discounts from community businesses for students who present their Drug Free ME membership card.
Mid-East leaders say the program is valuable because it gives students a supportive way to stay drug free, provides them with practical tools to avoid risky situations and offers proof of their commitment when applying for jobs, colleges or the military. Membership is free for all students.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Prosecutor Welch’s generosity and belief in our mission,” said Mid-East Assistant Superintendent and Drug Free ME Co-Advisor Clint Rhodes. “This contribution helps us continue to reward students for making positive choices, and it strengthens our ability to support a healthy, drug-free school community.”
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