On Tuesday morning, Nov 27, Mr. James C. Summers, health and physical education teacher at Freedom Area High School, was arrested by the New Sewickley Police Department. According to the police department’s press release, Summers was caught on camera using and providing illicit substances to a student. After news broke about the events surrounding the teacher’s arrest, a variety of emotions were experienced by Freedom students and parents. Some people believe punishment should be harsh, while others express more merciful sentiments. It truly doesn’t matter who you are; no one is above the law. This statement certainly rings true, as Summers’ trial and sentencing loom. It is also imperative for students to understand their responsibility in a situation like this. All of the bad in this situation is also coupled with a significant learning opportunity for everyone. We’ve all been taught the horrors of drug use, but until now, it may not have seemed especially relevant. The decision to do drugs is, more often than not, permanent. It’s hard to understand the difficulty of breaking an addiction without actually experiencing it. The effects of drugs don’t simply harm the user, but also their families, friends, and in situations like this, the entire community. Now is when we need to prove our resilience as a group. Freedom Area School District Superintendent, Dr. Jeffrey Fuller, and the rest of Freedom’s administrative team has shown their commitment to the safety of the students and staff. Now we must do the same. Although there are opposing feelings about this situation, it’s necessary for Freedom, as a district and community, to use the mantra adopted by the high school faculty, and “rise as one.”