Pubdate: Fri, 30 May 2003
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution (GA)
Copyright: 2003 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Contact:  http://www.accessatlanta.com/ajc/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/28
Author: Terry M. Adams

DRUG TESTING FAILS STUDENTS

Drug testing in schools seems like a sound idea, but ultimately it will 
cause more harm and damage to otherwise decent students than it is worth 
("Random testing no way to curb student drug use,"  May 29).

The outcome of drug testing will have the same effect as the "zero 
tolerance" policies. For every derelict, drug-using student who is expelled 
from school because of drug testing, there will be 10 others who are 
otherwise decent students with bright futures who are expelled as well. A 
little ill-advised partying from time to time, which should not be 
condoned, will nevertheless brand you as a societal misfit under the guise 
of equal treatment.

We're like a cat chasing its tail when it comes to solving problems in the 
public schools. Rather than identifying the problems and facing them 
head-on for the overall well-being of our school system, we choose yet 
another program, regulation or policy, which usually results in further 
degradation and turmoil. And then we have the costs.

TERRY M. ADAMS, Cumming
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom