SCHOOLS OK USE OF DRUG-DETECTING SPRAY

The Rockingham County Board of Education set policy for using drug
detecting aerosol spray kits in schools this fall during its work
session Monday evening.

The sprays are atomized chemicals that detect drug residue. If a
student is suspected of possessing or using drugs, his belongings
can be wiped down with a special pad and sprayed with the chemicals.
The pad changes color where drug residue is present.

With this spray, school administrators can determine what kind of
drugs are being used and by whom. The policy emphasized that
positive results will not lead immediately to disciplinary action.
After several positive test results, administrators will involve parents.

School administrators will use sprays to counsel students suspected
of using drugs, not punish those caught with drug residue on their belongings.

The board's policy states that only school administrators, not law
enforcement officers, will use the drug detection kits. The sprays
are meant to deter students from buying and using drugs, or to stop
those who are already users.

The sprays can be used if an administrator has reasonable suspicion
that a student has been near narcotics.

Also discussed:

- - Dr. Jean Bullock-Steverson reviewed miscellaneous policies
regarding changing auditors every five years, deleting duplicate
policies and revising attendance policies. Students who miss more
than the maximum 10 absences may find alternate ways of making up
class credit.

- - Linda Pulliam, English department chair at McMichael High School,
presented information on senior projects. The high school has been
encouraging students to go beyond expectations while completing the
paper and presentation required for graduation.

- - Dr. Terry Smith discussed Early College for High School. While
awaiting budget approval, planning for the 2008-09 school year will
begin soon.