Despite current limitations, it is evident that researchers are committed to
improving understanding of the nature and scope of substance abuse and its prevention.
In this respect, the federal government and institutions of higher education
have worked with schools not just to gather data but to play increasingly important
roles as partners in developing programs. This has also been true of various public
agencies including those involved in law enforcement. Such activity provides
important examples and lessons learned to guide future efforts to expand school
and community partnerships