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.