Editorial: Focus on drinking takes off the gloss

For something that is supposed to be one of life's high points, it is unfortunate so much negativity is attached to school balls.
All the focus on drinking and post-event chaos takes much of the gloss off an event which is for many of our young people a high point in their lives, a sort of coming of age, and much anticipated.
The focus on drinking has largely centred on after-ball functions and many schools have said they will cancel the main event if there is evidence a large-scale party has been organised.
It is unfortunate schools are being held to account for a problem deeply ingrained in our culture. Few weekends go by without some form of trouble caused by wayward youths who have had more than they can handle. That has led again to calls for the legal age to buy alcohol to be raised.
The Lancet last year ranked alcohol as the most harmful of all recreational drugs, on the basis of harm to the user and others - way ahead of heroin and crack cocaine.
Teenage drinking is linked to increased risk of road accidents, injuries and death, crime, violence, sexual risk-taking, mental health problems, suicidal behaviour and a higher risk of being a victim of drink-driving or crime.
But we must question where the school fits into the problem of youth binge drinking.
With the ball season set to begin in Wanganui, it was intriguing to see where local schools sit.
Wanganui High School and Girls' College responded promptly to Chronicle requests for information on policy around their balls and booze. They have what appear sound guidelines on acceptable behaviour and strict rules governing alcohol. Where the lines blur is in association with the after-ball party.
While High School has a hard-line stance indicated by the suggestion police would be notified of any party; Girls' College has the view that what goes on out of school is the domain of parents.
One could also argue that at the end of their school lives, students are approaching a time when they are expected to act as adults and take responsibility for their actions; why should an after-ball party be different?
Too often we expect our education providers to act as a pseudo welfare agency, righting all manner of social wrongs.
The fact that so many balls will see a strong security presence shows the organisers do take their role seriously. In addition, guidelines have been set and well publicised - if you want to attend the function, don't overdo it on the alcohol and no silly behaviour, or else.
Let us all hope that the message is heeded this year and all our young people have a night to remember rather than one they would rather forget.