BATESVILLE BEEFS UP DRUG TESTING POLICY

Students Driving To School In The Batesville District Had Better Be Drug Free.

The district is beefing up its drug testing policy, which previously
included only athlete drug testing.

In a special meeting Monday, the school board approved adding
student drivers to its random drug testing policy.

Superintendent Ted Hall said any students who drives to school will
be subject to drug tests. He also said the policy covers testing for
students suspected of using drugs.

"Most (districts) are going to this thing now," he said of the
policy. "I think it's good for us to look at it."

Hall said the district is set up to have students tested on site,
making the process more efficient.

Board president Paul Hance said this type of policy has been
challenged in other districts, but courts have upheld the schools'
right to test students for illegal substances.

Hance also said he feels the policy addition helps cover the
district from any liabilities associated with a student under the
influence of drugs.

Hall said notification of the change will be given to students in
packets when school begins.