The Truth About Underage Drinking and Academic Performance

 As students return to school this August, many parents are focused on supplies, schedules, and grades. But one of the biggest factors affecting academic performance isn’t found in a classroom — it’s whether or not teens drink alcohol.

Underage drinking remains one of the most widespread risks facing high school students in Idaho and across the country. While some view it as a “rite of passage,” research shows otherwise. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, 2023) reports that alcohol is the leading factor in teen deaths from car crashes, while the CDC notes that alcohol use during adolescence can lead to poor school performance, missed classes, and higher dropout rates (CDC, 2023).

Why does drinking affect school success so strongly? One reason is biology. Teen brains are still developing until around age 25, particularly in areas responsible for judgment, decision-making, and memory. Alcohol disrupts this development, impairing concentration, learning, and impulse control (NIDA, 2024). Even occasional drinking can interfere with sleep, which is crucial for learning and memory consolidation.



Another reason is social. Teens who drink are more likely to fall into risky peer groups, skip classes, or engage in behaviors that distract from academics. According to the Monitoring the Future study (University of Michigan, 2023), high school students who drink regularly are twice as likely to have low grades compared to their peers who abstain.

In Lemhi County, SSAPCO works to counter this risk through education and culture change. Programs like the Every 15 Minutes event highlight the devastating consequences of alcohol-related crashes. Meanwhile, alternative activities such as movie nights, the Zombie Walk, and Family Fun Night offer safe, engaging opportunities that don’t revolve around alcohol. These activities not only reduce risk but also give students a sense of belonging and accomplishment outside of drinking culture.

Parents play a critical role as well. Research shows that teens are far less likely to drink if they know their parents disapprove (SAMHSA, 2022). This means having clear family rules about alcohol, checking in regularly, and creating an atmosphere where safety matters more than punishment. One practical step families can take this school year is a safe ride policy — promising your teen that they can always call for a ride home, no matter what, without fear of immediate consequences.

The start of the school year is the perfect moment to reset expectations. By talking with your teen about alcohol, setting clear rules, and supporting drug-free activities, you are not just protecting them from risk — you are setting them up for success in the classroom and beyond.

Sources:

  • NHTSA. (2023). Traffic Safety Facts: Young Drivers.

  • CDC. (2023). Alcohol and Public Health: Underage Drinking.

  • NIDA. (2024). Alcohol and the Teen Brain.

  • SAMHSA. (2022). Talk. They Hear You. Campaign.

  • University of Michigan. (2023). Monitoring the Future Survey.

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