THINK DRUG SCREENS OVER

Tift County School System administrators should think carefully
before implementing a proposed random drug testing program for some
students in grades seven through 12.

The school officials' desire to prevent drug abuse is understandable,
especially since gang activity seems to be more prevalent in the
schools today. But why test only athletes and students involved in
extracurricular activities? Wouldn't kids involved in sports and
extracurricular activities be less likely to use drugs than those who
goof around after school doing nothing?

Several "Rant & Rave" callers have raised good points recently. Among
them:

- -- Inexpensive drug tests can be inaccurate. What precautions would
be in place to make sure students weren't punished for false positives?

- -- Will all students be treated the same regardless of who they
are?

- -- Will the program leave the school system open to lawsuits? Is it
legal to single out certain groups of students such as athletes,
civic club members and drivers?

- -- How much will the program cost and would this money be better used
buying books and equipment?

- -- Are teachers and staff subject to the same rules?

The program may well be a good idea, but we hope the school system
will look into these questions thoroughly before making a decision.