NO SCHOOL DRUG TESTS

Drug and alcohol testing isn't being considered by Edmonton's school
districts, say officials, even as a Manitoba school board explores the idea.

"I think our schools are dealing with whatever incidents may be
arising at the local level, at the school level. It seems schools are
able to deal with it on a case-by-case basis," said Sue Huff, an
Edmonton Public Schools trustee.

BREATHALYZER

Huff said she was surprised to learn that a school board in Flin
Flon, Man., has proposed breathalyzer and saliva tests for any
students in all grades or staff members who appear to be under the influence.

The superintendent, Blaine Veitch, argued the testing, which would be
the first of its kind in Canada if successfully implemented, could
act as a deterrent and help schools provide "a drug-free environment."

"I don't know that breathalyzers are necessary, I think we can make
judgment calls as situations arise. I think that is happening. If
there is a problem, it's addressed," Huff said.

She added that public schools here are currently working in
co-operation with school resource officers and counsellors to deal
with drug and alcohol incidents.

Lori Nagy, Edmonton Catholic Schools spokesman, said drug and alcohol
tests are not being considered because "it's not a problem that is
increasing in Edmonton Catholic schools."

Students involved in such incidents are suspended or expelled, Nagy
said, adding she is interested in seeing what pans out in Manitoba.

The proposed tests have critics in Manitoba raising privacy concerns
and calling the move "unconstitutional."

Currently, a policy committee is researching the idea and is expected
to make a recommendation on the issue in the next few months.

URINE TESTS

Nine years ago, the Garden Valley School Division in Winkler, Man.,
came under fire when they made athletes take random urine tests to
screen for drugs.

The ombudsman ruled the tests were illegal and the school division
was ordered to stop the practice.