DOGS, LOCKER SEARCHES DON'T SEND RIGHT MESSAGE

Young people should have rights, just like all the old people trying
to take them away.

More importantly, locker searches and drug dogs won't address the
problem of kids doing drugs. It will only give a false sense of
security when nothing is found because the kids will stop keeping it
in their lockers, or stop coming to school altogether.

Serious drug use affects a person's behavior, and almost always leaves
an impression for anyone to see, including teachers and counselors if
they are paying attention.

The kids who have problems need help from a supportive community. The
answers to these issues lie far from the current path and more in the
realm of education and early support for troubled children.

Many teenage drug users have troubled pasts, including abuse and
poverty.

These conditions lead to vicious cycles, which are preventable if the
community steps in early enough to help.

These children need role models from an early age to show them the
value of education and clean, drug-free living.

Somehow I don't think the drug dogs are going to send that kind of
message.

Eleanor Svaton,

Honolulu