CONSTITUTIONALITY NO SMALL MATTER

To the Editor,

I must say I am surprised by the extreme measures to which some are willing
to go and the rights they are willing to forgo for drug testing. The
constitutionality of any particular law or policy is not a small matter.

Millions have died protecting the Constitution, fighting for what it stands
for and ensuring that all generations enjoy the freedoms of our
forefathers. The Fourth Amendment guarantees us the right against
unreasonable searches and seizures.

Just being a student in a public school, which is mandatory by law, is not
cause to be subject to drug testing. There are many social ills in our
country, but we certainly cannot lower ourselves to random searches to try
to curtail them. We have the right to feel secure in our property and our
persons.

We do not live in a police state, and I don't think there are many who
really want to start. While I do agree our children have the right to
attend school in a drug-free atmosphere, I don't think random testing is
the answer, nor do I feel testing those wishing to participate in
extracurricular activities is right either.

It's been proven such programs help keep kids out of trouble because of
their positive incentives; it is a shame to persecute those wanting to be
involved. Perhaps it is time for parents to do their job and police their
own kids, watch for the signs and be involved in their students' lives --
every part of their lives. Sometimes society's woes can be cured with an
ounce of prevention at home.

Ronda Ellis
Shawnee