PUBLIC HEARING ON DRUG TESTING POLICY SET FOR TUESDAY IN JEFFERSON

JEFFERSON -- If approved, student drivers will not only need a
parking sticker next year, but also a drug test, according to
Jefferson Independent School District's drug testing proposal.

"We're proposing to institute a drug testing program for students
who want to participate in extracurricular activities or drive a
vehicle to school," said superintendent Richard Cook. "We've never
had a drug testing program at Jefferson."

The district will host a public forum Tuesday at 7 p.m. to discuss
the district's proposal. The meeting will be in the board room at
the district's central office, 1600 MLK Drive.

"It's a safety and welfare issue," Cook said of the proposal. "It'll
make our campus safer."

Board president Ricky Harrington agrees. He said providing an
education in a drug-free environment will prevent injuries and
altercations caused by being on drugs.

"Maybe it will deter some kids hopefully if they think about doing
that," he said.

The board president noted the district has had one or two drug
incidents "like anyone else, but we want to be proactive from stopping it."

Cook estimates approximately 80 percent of the student body will be
drug tested. This includes students involved in all extracurricular
activities such as band, cheerleading, student council, UIL academic
teams, dance, drill teams, sports and other activities.

Harrington thinks it is good that student drivers will also have to
be tested because "if they're using drugs, they're endangering
themselves and everyone that drives."

This will also be the first time football players will be tested.
Harrington admits he was shocked the district did not have a program
in place before, but he is glad they are headed in that direction now.

"It's a great idea," he said. "Mr. Cook is bringing some new ideas."

Cook said after the initial test, students will be tested randomly.

"It's gotten to the point in society that it's worth having a test
just as a deterrent if nothing else," he said.

"We're in the 21st century. We can't be oblivious to that fact,"
added Harrington.

The program will cost the school between $10,000 and $12,000. The
drug testing company, Southwest Consortium of San Angelo, will be
available Tuesday night for questions.

Harrington said hopefully by the board's June meeting, the program
will be approved. Since the program is new, he said they will take
their time making sure it is implemented right and all concerns are addressed.

"If we don't get it done by August, we'll move it back," he said.
"It'll be a big step."

He encourages the public to attend Tuesday night's meeting.

"It's going to be a first," he said. "I know they're interested. If
they have concerns I hope they come and voice their concerns,
support or opinions. We welcome it anytime."

If approved, information about the program will be sent home to
parents along with routine documents like the Student Code of Conduct.

"We don't want to surprise anyone," Harrington said.