DEBATE OVER SCHOOL DRUG TESTS

DRUGS are everywhere today, and private schools are aware of this.

They are among the first schools in Australia to consider introducing drug
testing for students. But have they gone too far? Are we heading
towardsbeing too much like America?

Some private schools have their reasons for wanting to introduce drug testing.

These tests will help identify offenders of drug abuse, so they can be
counselled.

It will lessen the chance of violence because people are less likely to
have fights that occur from drug deals gone wrong.

The test will also provide a sense of security for the students.

They won't have to sit next to a person who is completely "stoned" and
about to pass out.

The schools obviously feel that this procedure will help to eliminate
criminal activity from their playgrounds.

Parents will feel safer in the knowledge that their children are clean.

If they find out that their child does have a drug problem, they can do
something about it.

There are many advantages about these tests, but what about the disadvantages?

Some people argue that it is an invasion of the children's privacy.

How embarrassed would you feel if somebody searched in your pockets, shoes
and socks before entering a toilet room to give a urine sample?

Even if some drug tests do come back positive and the students are expelled
that's not dealing with the problem - that's just pushing it out onto the
streets where the drug addicts will cause even more trouble.

Others argue that it is a necessary evil and should be used in all schools.

Still others say we should be catching the drug dealers not the users.

There is drug education in schools, and the general message is don't take
drugs. This doesn't tell students enough about the horrific side effects
and consequences of drug abuse.

There is one Sydney school on the verge of drug testing and two others have
suggested it.

Do you agree with your school drug testing your child?

State schools have decided not to drug test.

How many P and C committees will table this issue for discussion?