DRUG TESTING SHOULD APPLY TO ALL STUDENTS

Humboldt High School has begun random drug testing of student athletes
and plans to expand the program to students in other extracurricular
activities. It is an unfortunate decision that sends the wrong message
to students that only those who participate in popular extracurricular
activities are required to stay drug free.

We have long supported random drug testing of students. But such a
program should apply to all students, not a select few. Testing only
student athletes or participants in extracurricular activities sends
the message that students will be punished for using drugs by being
kicked out of the extracurricular activity. We find it hard to justify
only holding a few select students accountable.

The prevalence of illegal drugs in our culture is disturbing. When
they fall into the hands of students, the consequences can be
especially damaging. Not only could they affect schoolwork, they could
lead to addiction, health problems and criminal behavior before
students are old enough to understand the long-term consequences of
their actions.

Prior to this year, schools only could test students if there was
reasonable suspicion of drug use. Most schools have a zero tolerance
policy regarding drugs on school property. Students caught with drugs
can be expelled and arrested for breaking the law. Drug possession is
a serious matter with serious consequences.

We don't doubt that drug testing student athletes or those involved in
other extracurricular activities will make those students think twice
before using drugs. But why stop with student athletes? If random
testing will reduce drug use, why not subject all students to testing?
Punishing drug users has its place, and being kicked off a team or out
of other student activities might be appropriate. But what about the
rest of the student body?

A program that would test all students would do three things. It would
send a strong message that drug use won't be tolerated, no matter who
you are or what activities you are involved in. It would give school
administrators access to a much wider population. This could help nip
a school drug problem in the bud before other students become involved
and it gets out of control. Finally, it would send a message that all
students are equally important and valued, not just those who
participate in popular extracurricular activities.