Pubdate: Wed, 16 Oct 2002
Source: Charleston Gazette (WV)
Copyright: 2002 Charleston Gazette
Contact:  http://www.wvgazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/77
Author: Theresa Siebel

VOLUNTEERS SHOULD BE DRUG-TESTED

Editor:

My grandchildren have started to kindergarten and it seems that parents can 
volunteer as classroom helpers. While I commend those parents who do this, 
I along with my daughter have some concerns.

It appears there is currently no criteria or procedure for volunteers. Many 
parents don't live with their children because of divorce or separation. 
Some divorced parents, fathers in particular, have supervised visitations 
with their child.

Obviously there must be a reason for the supervision, perhaps a history of 
domestic violence, criminal arrest and maybe even drug abuse. These parents 
should not be allowed to be in the classrooms with our children. I know 
that most parents don't fit into any of these categories and are excellent 
role models. It is those few exceptions that worry us. Our teachers work 
hard and have one of the most difficult jobs in today's society. I know 
they need the help.

However, I feel that this issue needs to be addressed. The Board of 
Education should adopt procedures for school volunteers, such as submission 
to drug testing and/or criminal background checks. It's a scary world out 
there. The classroom should be the one place where we can put all of our 
fears to rest.

Theresa Siebel

Hurricane
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart