EDINA, Minn. — Edina High School has become the first school in Minnesota to allow students to carry and administer naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, the medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
The Edina School Board voted unanimously this week to adopt the policy following a recent change in state law that permits students in grades 9–12 to possess and use naloxone to help save another student’s life. Students no longer need permission from a school nurse to carry the medication.
View the board policy.
Read the state law.
District officials said the change aims to reduce barriers that prevent students from getting help in an overdose emergency. Jody Remsing, director of student support services for Edina Public Schools, told the board that stigma and secrecy often keep young people from seeking help, increasing the risk of fatal outcomes. She also noted that naloxone is safe, has no harmful side effects, and can be easily administered as a nasal spray.
Board members pointed out that while all Minnesota schools are required by law to keep at least two doses of naloxone on hand, having more doses in more places could make the difference between life and death. They said allowing students to carry Narcan could save precious time in emergencies when a nurse or staff member may not be immediately available.
Members also discussed the growing concern over fentanyl-laced substances, emphasizing that the medication could protect students who may unknowingly ingest opioids.
Under Minnesota’s Good Samaritan overdose prevention law, both schools and students are protected from liability when naloxone is used in good faith to save a life.
The move underscores a growing statewide and national push for wider access to naloxone—an effort supported by Emily’s Hope, which distributes free naloxone boxes throughout South Dakota and neighboring states to help prevent overdose deaths and raise awareness about the fentanyl crisis.
