(KLZA)-- Emily Murray, a Public Affairs Specialist with the Drug Enforcement Administration and a DEA agent presented a program at Falls City Middle School on Tuesday providing information to students and their teachers about methamphetamine and other drugs that are prevalent in the area.

Murray said it was a great experience and that the students were very receptive to the message and learning about specific drug issues in Nebraska, particularly in Richardson County.

Murray said there are some very dangerous drugs available in the area, especially an upward trend in the use of methamphetamine and Fentanyl.

Students asked question about how the DEA personnel got started in their jobs and the difference between the state and federal personnel. Students were also very curious about ways they can say no to drugs. Murray said while its never an easy situation, it's apparent that kids in this age group are being approached about experimenting with different drugs.

Part of the program was helping kids learn ways to get themselves out of those situations.

Murray wants parents to know that while it can be a hard conversation to start out, its a good idea to begin talking about drugs with your kids as early as Kindergarten. She noted the importance of helping younger children distinguish between a drug and candy or medications as they can look very similar.

She said the DEA finds that the more parents have an open dialogue with their kids, the kids are more likely to discuss what they are experiencing with their friends and what they are talking about as they get older.