Pubdate: Thu, 01 Sep 2002 Source: Log Cabin Democrat (AR) Copyright: 2002 The Log Cabin Democrat Contact: http://thecabin.net/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/548 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Testing) DRUG TESTS AREN'T ENOUGH The Conway School District is doing the right thing in instituting random drug testing, but it is not the only thing that needs to be done. The random testing among students in grades 7 through 12 involved in extracurricular activities is just one of the many steps that needs to be taken protect young people in the school system. School board President Dr. Terry Fiddler was correct when he talked about no one being 100 percent right or wrong on this issue. It was obvious that school board members wrestled with what to do, and the decision by each of the seven individuals was not made lightly or without taking into account the thoughts and feelings of patrons and parents. Discussing the subject with anyone showed how strong the feelings were that people had on the subject. There is little middle ground. People were strong in their support or opposition on drug testing, and it provided board members with an incredible amount of feedback. Drug testing has to be part of an overall drug education and prevention program. Students of all ages, but particularly those in elementary school, need instruction on the dangers of drugs, the pitfalls of using, and the short-term and long-term consequences. Educating students on the physical and psychological implications of drug use is needed to show children what can happen to their bodies and minds. They have to know how drug use can hinder their physical development, hurt their ability to learn and create family and societal problems. The education also must cover the legal consequences of drug use. Our jails and prisons are full today because of drugs. The number of drug-related offenses our court system must deal with is staggering, and once individuals start down this road, it is hard to get off it. The word "addiction" is associated with drug use for a reason. Once a person's mind and body are seduced by drugs, it is extremely hard -- for some impossible - -- to ever get away. A school district that is testing for drugs is not out to catch students. Nothing would make officials happier than to never have a test return positive. The schools are giving students another reason to say no. The education they receive in the classroom, at home and in other positive settings is how they can get the data to make a knowledgeable decision to reject drugs, and the possibility of a drug test is another reason to refuse if someone offers drugs anyway. There are students who would never consider taking drugs no matter what the circumstances, and there are others, sadly, who will succumb to the pressure. By educating all students, and encouraging further education on the subject at home, the school district may be able to steer those in the middle and some of those on the edge away from drugs. The fact that drug testing is needed in our schools is sad, but it would be sadder still to refuse to see that there is a problem, and the testing and education are important ways to get the message across to young people. - --- MAP posted-by: Tom