College students studying at the College of Ozarks are prohibited from drinking any alcoholic drink regardless of their age, says a report from the Springfield News-Leader.

The College of Ozarks, a private Christian college located in Point Lookout near Branston and Hollister, updated its student handbook to specify that "regardless of age," any student will not be allowed to consume alcoholic beverages in and outside the campus, or in a school-sanctioned activity. This is according to a "Zero Tolerance Policy" that the school has in regards to alcohol and drug use.

 "[A] student at the College agrees to follow the College's Zero Tolerance Policy which prohibits the use, consumption, possession, manufacture, sale, or distribution of alcohol, narcotics, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, or chemicals by any student, regardless of age," the student handbook stated.

The News-Leader notes that while the rule was already in place and was understood to be applied to all students of all ages, the College decided to emphasize the matter to avoid unnecessary confusion.

"We don't want there to be any confusion," Valorie Coleman, public relations director of the College of Ozarks, told the paper. "We want to be upfront about what our expectations are."

In addition, the school also prohibits the display of "any advertising for alcoholic beverages" such as posters, shirts with print labels, lamps, and vehicles. Bottles or containers of the said alcoholic drinks are also banned. Disobeying the policy is considered as a major violation, and might lead to a dismissal.

The school also reserves the right to require students to undergo drug tests, if they are suspected to have violated the policy. Failure to comply will result in dismissal.

The College notes that alcohol and drug use has been associated with various health risks ranging from depression to death. Students are advised to stay away from such substances, and consult with the school's Health Center for additional information.