In response to growing concerns among families, health providers and educators about the rising fentanyl crisis, a collaborative effort is set to take place in Santa Cruz County.
Santa Cruz County Office of Education, in partnership with SafeRx Santa Cruz County, will host a free screening of the poignant documentary “Fentanyl High.” The film, directed by Kyle Santoro, a recent graduate of Los Gatos High School, offers a stirring examination of the opioid epidemic through the lens of high school students.
The screening will take place on Thursday, March 20, from 6:30-8pm at the San Lorenzo Valley High School Performing Arts Center, located at 7105 Highway 9, in Felton. Following the film, a panel discussion will bring together public health experts and a parent who has experienced the tragic effects of fentanyl poisoning.
“Fentanyl High” presents an honest portrayal of the opioid crisis, featuring candid interviews with students that shed light on the complexities surrounding substance use. Attendees, including families, caregivers and community members, will leave the event equipped with actionable steps for preventing substance abuse and supporting those impacted.
Organizers emphasize the importance of this event as part of wider community efforts to address opioid overdose prevention and accidental poisonings. The screening will provide critical insights into how social media influences drug purchases among teens, with many substances being counterfeit and dangerous.
Attendees will receive “Let’s Talk” booklets, which contain resources for discussing substance use and promoting healthy coping mechanisms, along with tip sheets outlining signs of an overdose. In addition, community partners will distribute free Naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an overdose, and offer training on its administration.
Mental health counselors will be available on-site throughout the event to provide support, recognizing the sensitive nature of the topic.
While admission to the screening is free, registration is required due to limited space. Families are encouraged to attend together, particularly middle and high school students. To register, visit sccoe.link/FH-SLV2025.
This event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District and partners including LC2 Productions, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, SafeRx Santa Cruz County, Janus of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County Health Centers, Encompass Community Services and the Santa Cruz County Department of Public Health.
