Pubdate: Thu, 10 May 2007 Source: Honolulu Advertiser (HI) Copyright: 2007 The Honolulu Advertiser, a division of Gannett Co. Inc. Contact: http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/195 Author: Stephanie Stoner PROTECTING CHILDREN OF HAWAI'I NOT SHAMEFUL This is in response to Mel McKeague's letter (May 5) regarding his opposition to random drug testing for Hawai'i's teachers. As a seventh-grade student and a military child, I am appalled you would suggest that asking teachers to take part in random drug tests is un-American. My father has served in the U.S. Navy for more than 16 years. All military service members (including my dad) are subject to random drug testing, regardless of rank. This policy helps ensure that the U.S. remains "the land of the free and home of the brave." Many people in many noble professions participate in drug testing. The only shame these tests bring is to those whose drug abuse has been exposed. People who use illegal drugs do not belong in our schools. Unless you have something to hide, there is no downside to the testing. I know I would be very upset if I came to class one day and my teacher was high on drugs. There is no shame in protecting the children of Hawai'i. Stephanie Stoner, Honolulu - --- MAP posted-by: Derek