Fourth Amendment

WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO TEST TEACHERS FOR DRUGS

Referencing a letter written by Jim Henshaw (Letter, Nov. 24), it is
inferred that the Fourth Amendment should be upheld with regards to
drug testing.

It is not unreasonable to expect our educators to be drug free, but
time and time again, it has been found that some of these
professionals don't understand the concept and rules.

I agree with the Fourth Amendment, but under the circumstances, the
employer (the DOE) and general public have a right to "safety and
protection."

Random drug testing for teachers defines how important we the people
consider the teaching position. We entrust our children to the
competence and care of school employees. Private business has long
used drug testing to ensure that their employees are mindful and
dependable. What makes teachers different from other people that hold
important, responsible positions?

The overwhelming majority of teachers have nothing to hide, agreed
with the terms and conditions of the drug tests and ratified their
contract.

The few teachers who disagree and have sided with the ACLU should be
given the choice to find other employment, where they won't be tested.

Ben Clinger's editorial comments (Letter, Nov. 21) said "Random drug
testing is a valuable option to the employer, and ultimately the
public, in an attempt to keep people honest and to reduce the exposure
of our youth to drugs."

Ben, you are exactly correct.

Ted Kanemori

Kane'ohe