DRUG TESTING IN SCHOOLS

Objections to random student drug testing go far beyond privacy
concerns. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the National
Education Association oppose student drug testing because the programs
are potentially counterproductive.

Random testing can erode relationships of trust between students and
adults at school, damaging an essential component of a safe and
rewarding learning environment. Researchers from Oregon Health and
Science University found attitudinal changes among students in schools
with drug testing programs that indicate new risk factors for future
substance use.

Testing erects counterproductive barriers to participation in
extracurricular activities - the very activities that provide
structure and supervision during the peak hours of adolescent drug
use, from 3-6 p.m. Testing may also trigger oppositional behavior,
such as trying to "beat" the test.

Our time and resources would be better spent educating students
through comprehensive, interactive and honest drug education with
identification of and assistance for students whose lives are
disrupted by substance use.

Jennifer Kern

San Francisco

The writer is youth policy manager for the Drug Policy Alliance.