EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE

I am writing to express my deep support for the random student drug
testing policy that has been submitted by the Williamsburg-James City
County school Superintendent Gary Mathews. During my many years of
helping the school system and its students, I have seen a trend of
younger students using and becoming addicted to more powerful and
addictive manufactured drugs.

A great number of students and parents have been working together for
almost two years to come up with a better way to help prevent
substance abuse. Although the proposed policy may not be the total
answer, it will have a positive impact in helping students avoid
substance abuse or get help if they are falling through the cracks. As
an active parent in the life of my daughter (a freshman at Lafayette
High School), I am pleased that this program is aimed at helping
students and families.

I am a battalion chief with the Williamsburg Fire Department and have
seen fatal car crashes, violent crimes, sexual assaults, suicides and
many other tragedies that were related to behaviors related to
substance abuse. My hope is that if we can reduce the substance abuse
at an early age, we can help reduce other deviant behaviors that cause
our community bigger and more costly problems.

ERIC M. STONE

James City County