Pubdate: Fri, 09 Nov 2007
Source: Huntsville Times (AL)
Copyright: 2007 The Huntsville Times
Contact:  http://www.htimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/730
Author: WENDY REEVES

MADISON SCHOOLS EYE DRUG TESTING

Policy To Focus On Extracurricular Activities, Driving

MADISON - A random drug testing policy for students who drive to 
school or participate in extracurricular activities is being 
considered for Madison City Schools.

"We feel an obligation to provide the safest environment we can, and 
a drug-free environment is the best for our children," Superintendent 
Dr. Dee Fowler said at Thursday night's board meeting.

He said the proposed policy would allow the system to randomly drug 
test any student who:

Drives to Bob Jones High School and has a parking permit.

Attends middle or high school and participates in extracurricular activities.

Bobby Jackson, director of Transportation, Pupil Services and 
Athletics, said if the policy is approved, between 40 and 50 students 
will be selected randomly each month for testing.

He said the test will cover 10 types of drugs such as amphetamines, 
barbiturates, marijuana and prescription medications. "We're not 
trying to find someone doing drugs but just give them another reason 
to say no" to drugs, Jackson said.

John Jones, personnel administrator, said a policy committee reviewed 
the proposed policy and recommends adding it to parking privileges 
and extracurricular activities policies.

No action was taken on the proposal.
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart