<p>Drinking was far more public 25 years ago. Because a very large percentage of high school students were 18, it was much easier for 14-15 year olds to access alcohol, and at many of the “senior” events, drinking could be legal if confined to those over 18. There was far, far more drinking and driving, and DUI laws were more poorly enforced than they are now (which is hard to believe!)</p>
<p>However, after dipping to lows in the mid-90s, high school drinking has leveled off, though in my state it continues to decline slowly.</p>