WT BOE SURVEY QUESTIONS PARENTS ON DRUG TESTING

WASHINGTON TWP. -- The Board of Education is asking parents what they think
about expanding the district's drug testing policies.

Last week, a random sample of 700 parents from the district's three middle
schools and high school were sent surveys on the subject.

"We're asking community members what their thoughts are," said Susan
Reintzel, director of student services.

Under existing policies, the district performs drug tests on students
suspected of substance abuse and tests athletes at random. One question in
the survey asks whether the district should also test students involved in
extra-curricular activities like clubs, according to Reintzel.

Other questions ask parents whether the current policy is sufficient or
whether it should be scrapped, she said. Survey recipients must respond by
June 15.

The district's substance abuse task force -- composed of board members,
administrators, counselors, police and other community members -- has
recommended investigating an expansion of current testing.

During last week's work session, the board reviewed the survey. Members
opted to poll 700 parents, rather than lesser numbers also discussed, to
provide the district with an adequate sampling at a reasonable cost. The
survey is estimated to cost $518, including postage and a stamped return
envelope.

At the meeting, board members discussed a gap in district testing
procedures. While current policy allows the district to test student
athletes for steroids, that part of the policy is not being enforced
because of costs, according to district officials.