LAMAR TO CONSIDER DRUG POLICY

Board Member Says There Has Been Spike In Drug Problems

Oak Grove high school senior Erica Taite said she doesn't see a drug
problem at her school, but she believes having a drug testing policy in
place will only help avoid one.

"I've never seen drug use at the school or when I go to a party," she said.
"I'm not saying there isn't any drugs, but the people I'm friends with
don't do them."

Lamar County School Board members, however, say they see a different
picture when they consider student discipline matters.

"It seems like we had more drug issues this year than we have had in the
past four combined," said board member Chris Ryals.

That and concerns among some parents prompted the board to draw up a drug
testing policy for students involved in extracurricular activities. The
board is expected to discuss and possibly vote on the matter today at 5:30 p.m.

"We're not wanting to take extracurriculars away from students, but if
there is a situation where a child is using illegal drugs, it's an
opportunity to stop the problem," Ryals said.

Board President Joel Dunagin said, "We've got to move forward and get this
thing behind us and make our schools drug free schools."

"I hope they pass it," Taite said. "I think kids will choose to play sports
instead of drugs."

"I've really got no problems with this, especially if you're an athlete,"
said her softball teammate, Logan James.

The policy calls for all student-athletes to be tested at least once each
year. Random tests are then given to students on a rotating basis
throughout the year.

It is similar to a drug policy in the Petal School District that school
officials say has been successful.

"I definitely feel like it's working," Athletic Director Larry Watkins
said. "It's definitely a deterrent and that's our main goal - to deter kids
from trying drugs."

"We think many kids would be around other kids who might be using drugs and
this gives them an excuse to say no," Petal Superintendent James Hutto said.

Drug testing costs $19 to $24 per test, Watkins said. Petal spent between
$5,000 and $6,000 on drug testing, Business Manager Sheryle Coaker said.

[Sidebar]

About The Policy

Lamar County School Board is considering a drug policy for students
involved in extracurricular activity. Here are the details.

Who is tested: All athletes have mandatory and random testing while
students in non-athletic programs are subject to random testing only.

The Penalties

First offense: Student cannot play or practice with a team for 20 percent
of the total season and must attend counseling.

Second offense: Student is removed from the team for the remainder of the
season and must attend counseling.

Third offense: Student is not allowed to participate in extracurricular
activities for the remainder of the school year.

Cost: $19 to $24 per test for approximately 700 students.