Counterdrug Schools

National Guard Counterdrug schools are specialized training programs designed to support the National Guard's efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse within the United States. These schools provide education and training to National Guard members, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations involved in counterdrug operations.

There are five (5) Counterdrug schools located in Florida, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Iowa and Washington. These schools continually adapt to specific requests for training from law enforcement agencies in their geographical region; training is tailored to threats officer encounter in their current and updated environment. In fiscal year 2022 over 68,000 students were trained.

The primary objectives of National Guard Counterdrug schools include:

1. Training National Guard members: These schools offer specialized training to National Guard personnel to enhance their skills and knowledge in areas such as drug interdiction, intelligence analysis, surveillance techniques, and drug prevention and education.

2. Supporting law enforcement agencies: National Guard Counterdrug schools collaborate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to provide training and resources to enhance their capabilities in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse. This may include training in areas such as drug identification, evidence collection, and tactical operations.

3. Community outreach and education: These schools also focus on community outreach and education programs to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and provide resources for prevention and treatment. They may conduct workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns in schools, community centers, and other public venues.

4. Intelligence analysis and support: National Guard Counterdrug schools train personnel in intelligence analysis techniques to gather, analyze, and disseminate information related to drug trafficking networks and trends. This information is shared with law enforcement agencies to support their operations and investigations.

5. Support to other agencies: In addition to law enforcement agencies, National Guard Counterdrug schools may also provide support to other government agencies involved in counterdrug efforts, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Coast Guard.

Overall, National Guard Counterdrug schools play a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of National Guard members and supporting law enforcement agencies and communities in their efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.