SCHOOL DRUG POLICY QUESTIONS ANSWERED

After 2 years of study and interaction with the community, the Bartlesville
Public Schools Board of Education approved a Student Drug Testing Policy on
Oct. 18, 2004. Since that time, several valid questions have appeared in
Off The Cuff. I will try to answer these questions.

1 - Why are only athletes being tested?

Athletes are only a portion of the students to be tested. A Supreme Court
decision in June 2002, broadened the authority of public schools to test
all middle and high school students who participate in competitive
extra-curricular activities. The Bartlesville Public Schools policy will
follow these guidelines. The program affects student in grades 9-12 at the
Mid-High and High School who participate in extra-curricular activities
sanctioned by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association
(OSSAA). These activities include testing for students who participate in
Academic Bowl, band, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, choir, cross
country, debate, football, golf, orchestra, soccer, softball, speech,
swimming & diving, tennis, track, volleyball and wrestling.

2 - Why aren't all students included?

The Supreme Court has ruled schools may test students that are involved in
extra-curricular activities. We are only going as far as the Supreme Court
says we can. If we go beyond that point, we risk costly litigation and we
believe it is better to spend our limited funds on education vs. attorney fees.

3 - Why aren't teachers, administrators included in the drug testing program?

We started this policy where we were on firm legal territory. I believe we
should start discussions with our professionals in this regard, after we
have successfully implemented the current student policy.

4 - Why do we not test for alcohol?

During our investigation, we learned that alcohol tests must be
administered with in 6 hours of consumption. This would seem to be a
challenge. Also, we are not aware of a school district that has a
successful program. Suggestions from the community would be appreciated.

5 - Are the penalties for testing positive punitive?

It is true that a student who tests positive will be restricted from
participation in the extra-curricular activity for a period of time.
However, the student will be offered an opportunity to participate in a
"Wake Up Call" session.

In addition, all documents created pursuant to this policy with regard to
any student will be kept confidential and will never be a part of the
student's cumulative folder nor be considered a "disciplinary" record.

6 - Does the Board understand this policy is not the Silver Bullet, that
will stop substance abuse?

Yes, we do understand. Currently, other policies address substance abuse.
First, a Department of Transportation regulation requires that all bus
drivers be tested randomly for drugs and alcohol throughout the year.

The District also uses trained dogs to search for contraband by targeting
only school property, including desks, lockers and parking lots.

And finally, the Board approved a policy that required all applicants for
employment to submit drug/alcohol testing as a condition of employment.
This policy applies to all employees regardless of position, title or
seniority.

We will continue to look for policies to become Drug Free. To conclude, I
hope this has answered your questions. We appreciate your support and
suggestions.

Barry W. Lowe is President of the Bartlesville Public Schools Board of
Education.