C.N.
Hello Kathleen,
First, I was a public school teacher for grades 7 & 8, so I have seen first hand some of the things you are concerned about. Yes, there are drugs, alcohol, sex, and bad influences going on, however, it is pervasive to our society. These things are not symptoms of public school, they are symptoms of our culture and they do occur at the same rates in private schools as well. I agree with the first poster, children model the behavior we show them. The secret is staying connected to them and guiding them through these decisions so that they can make them without us one day. As moms, we want to protect them from all the bad things out there, but we learn that we can't.
There are other options out there, homeschooling is one. And there are home-schooling co-ops too, parents will teach a group of kids and they all share the responsibilities. Some schools districts have teachers that oversee the homeschooling and they meet with them once a week, or so, to monitor the progress. Let me add a warning here, homeschooling is best done by a family that is deeply committed to this type of learning. It takes a lot of work on everyone's part, siblings included, to make this work. Don't let that discourage you should that be the route you take, just know that you will probally be in for more than you bargained for! It is not easy and the personalities of the individuals involved and family dynamics play a big part. I considered doing it because my youngest has deadly food allergies, and even as an experienced teacher, I found the task daunting.
I would take some time to call the school district you are living in and ask them what alternatives are available. You would be able to answer your question with a quick phone call. Just take a look at the web site for the district and look for employee titles like, curriculum co-ordinator or homeschool co-ordinator. Someone should eventually route you to the right person. Most districts are glad to take the time to answer these types of questions.
Good luck!